Charles Mainz

proposal, adding he thought it could be the basis for a lasting settlement.

Yet Putin cautioned that the U.S.

had not discussed its ideas substantively with Russia, arguing it likely meant the White House had yet to convince Ukraine to accept terms.

Putin also insisted Moscow would achieve its objectives in Ukraine either way, pointing to recent Russian gains on the battlefield.

Critics of the U.S.

plan say it tilts heavily in Russia's favor, with calls for Ukraine to cede territory, cap its military, and renounce ambitions to join NATO.

Charles Mainz, NPR News, Moscow.

At a meeting with his Security Council, Putin was asked to comment on widespread media reports of the U.S.

peace plan.

The Kremlin leader confirmed Russia had received the U.S.

proposal, adding he thought it could be the basis for a lasting settlement.

Yet Putin cautioned that the U.S.

had not discussed its ideas substantively with Russia, arguing it likely meant the White House had yet to convince Ukraine to accept terms.

Putin also insisted Moscow would achieve its objectives in Ukraine either way, pointing to recent Russian gains on the battlefield.

Critics of the U.S.

plan say it tilts heavily in Russia's favor, with calls for Ukraine to cede territory, cap its military, and renounce ambitions to join NATO.

Charles Mainz, NPR News, Moscow.

The attack took place in the city of Novorossiysk, one of Russia's largest oil export ports, with local officials declaring a state of emergency amid damage to a docked ship, apartment buildings and an oil depot.

While some media reports said the attack forced a full halt to all oil deliveries,

Local officials said only the fire crews had resulting blazes from the drones under control.