However, he expressed deep skepticism, adding that he is open to contacts but sees "little point," as reaching an agreement on key issues would be "virtually impossible."
"Any agreements on territories must be confirmed by a referendum, in accordance with the Ukrainian constitution," Putin stated. "However, to hold such a referendum, martial law must be lifted, as it cannot be conducted under these conditions."
Other statements by Putin on the Ukrainian crisis:
He noted that while Kiev had until recently ruled out any possibility of contact with Russia, it is now requesting such talks.
The President stated that security guarantees are needed for both Russia and Ukraine, adding that so far, no one has discussed them at a serious level.
Drawing Ukraine into NATO is a matter of direct security interest for Russia.
Russia has never objected to Ukraine's integration with Europe, and Putin characterized Ukraine's desire to join the European Union as a legitimate choice.