Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed studying the implementation of an interim government in Ukraine under the auspices of the United Nations, in cooperation with the United States, European countries, and Russia's partners.

According to Russian news agencies early Friday morning, the Russian president stated, in statements during a visit to the northern port of Murmansk, that Moscow is gradually but confidently advancing toward achieving its goals in the war with Kyiv, which has been ongoing for more than three years.

He emphasized that, in principle, it would be possible, under the auspices of the United Nations, with the United States, even with European countries, and of course with our partners and friends, to discuss the possibility of introducing an interim administration in Ukraine with the aim of holding new elections and signing key agreements to reach a settlement.

Putin added that he believes that US President Donald Trump, who is seeking to improve relations with Russia and work toward a settlement to the Ukrainian war, "genuinely desires peace in Ukraine."

In another context, Putin noted the escalating competition in the Arctic between various world powers, but stated that cooperation in this region between Moscow and Western countries is possible.

While the Russian president said that Moscow has never been threatened in the Arctic, he warned that his country is prepared to defend its interests in the region.

The Russian president seeks to strengthen trade via the Northern Sea Route through Arctic waters, as part of Russia's shift to Asia to move away from Europe due to Western sanctions imposed on Moscow.