Russian President Vladimir Putin (centre) speaks at a defense conference in Moscow on Wednesday. Photo: AFP/VNA

Putin said following a State Council meeting that an intensification of hostilities will lead to unnecessary losses. All armed conflicts end with some kind of diplomatic negotiation, Putin said, stressing that sooner or later, parties conflict must sit down and make an agreement.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the US on Wednesday to confirm Washington's support for Kyiv and highlight the importance of President Biden’s efforts to consolidate the Western alliance to oppose Russia’s special military operation.