Russia accuses US of prolonging Ukraine war as Putin expresses willingness for negotiations

Russia accused the U.S. of trying to prolong the Ukraine war after the Biden administration announced it would send antipersonnel mines to Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that President Vladimir Putin is open to negotiations. The U.S. decision follows its earlier approval for Ukraine to use long-range weapons against Russian targets. The mines are described as "non-persistent," meaning they become inactive after a certain time. The International Campaign to Ban Landmines criticized the U.S. move. Putin is reportedly willing to discuss a ceasefire with incoming U.S. President Donald Trump, potentially involving a division of four regions in Ukraine that Russia annexed in 2022. Ukraine continues to seek international assistance for demining efforts.