New Delhi, December 05 (QNA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin stated during his visit to India that the military operation in Ukraine is an attempt to end the war, not start it, accusing the West of igniting the conflict.

He added that Kyiv's insistence on continuing the fighting has pushed it into a practical dead end, emphasizing that Moscow's goal is not victory for its own sake, but the protection of Russian interests and people.

On the Middle East, Putin reaffirmed Russia's commitment to efforts within the United Nations to help resolve the Palestinian issue, stressing that the establishment of an independent Palestinian state is key to solving the Gaza crisis.

He expressed Russia's readiness to support US President Donald Trump's proposal regarding Gaza's administration, provided that authority is ultimately transferred to the Palestinian Authority, with a clear timeline for ending any temporary international administration. (QNA)