Russian President Vladimir Putin has linked the end of the war in Ukraine to a major condition. He wants NATO to stop expanding eastward, according to reports.

Putin Continues to Blame NATO

For many years, Putin has blamed NATO’s expansion for creating tension. He claims it pushed Russia to act aggressively. Now, he demands a written promise that NATO will stop growing toward Russia’s borders.

Putin’s Key Conditions for Peace

According to three Russian sources who spoke to Reuters, Putin has made several demands. First, he wants Western powers to give a written pledge that they will stop NATO’s expansion.

Furthermore, this condition would block Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, and other former Soviet countries from joining NATO.

In addition, Putin wants:

• Ukraine to stay neutral,

• Western sanctions on Russia to end,

• Frozen Russian assets to be released,

• Protection of Russian speakers in Ukraine.

Putin Uses Pressure to Push Demands

One source described these as non-negotiable. “Take it or leave it,” the source told Reuters.

Moreover, the source warned that if the West does not agree, Putin will continue the war. The source added, “Peace tomorrow will be even more painful.”

Putin Seeks Full Control of Four Regions

Another source said Putin has become less willing to compromise. Now, he wants full control of four Ukrainian regions—Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia.

Additionally, if Putin sees a chance to advance, he will take it. The Kremlin believes it can keep fighting for years, even under strong sanctions.

Putin Refuses to Back Down

So far, Putin has shown no interest in making major changes to his demands. Even after speaking with former U.S. President Donald Trump last week, he did not shift his position.

He said he was ready to draft a peace deal with Ukraine. However, he insisted that the "root causes" of the conflict must be resolved first.

Putin’s Meaning of ‘Root Causes’

The phrase “root causes” refers to Putin’s long list of hardline demands. These include:

• Ukraine must accept Russia’s control of certain regions,

• President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must step down,

• Ukraine’s constitution must be changed to weaken its military,

• Russian must be part of Ukraine’s cultural identity,

• Ukraine must never join NATO,

• Ukraine’s foreign military ties must be limited.

Notably, Reuters confirmed that these demands are still part of Putin’s plan.

In short, Putin wants big changes in Europe’s security map. He refuses to end the war unless NATO halts its expansion and Ukraine meets his demands. So far, his position remains firm, showing no signs of compromise.