Russia and Ukraine should reach an agreement to end the war themselves, while other countries should only assist. There is still a chance of reaching such an agreement, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, writes RBC Ukraine.

According to him, the key role in resolving the conflict belongs to the parties directly involved, while other countries can only facilitate the process: "Is this the wrong approach? I believe it is the right one. Russia and Ukraine should first and foremost reach an agreement with each other, while all other countries are ready to support and help, not only the United States but also the countries represented here".

The Kremlin leader stressed that this problem should be resolved directly by Moscow and Kyiv. He also expressed confidence that prospects for reaching an agreement remain.

"Are there chances? In my view, yes, there are", Putin concluded.

He also said that Russia allegedly avoids strikes on Ukraine`s leadership because Moscow needs negotiators who will not bring Russia to its knees.