Putin: Ukraine Must Choose Peace or More Losses

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday that ending the war is now a decision for Ukraine and its Western allies. He made the comments during his annual press conference. Putin stated that "the ball is in their court" to stop the fighting. He suggested that peace talks would require Ukraine to accept Russia's control of occupied territories. The Russian leader also expressed confidence that his military would capture more territory. He said he is certain Russian forces will seize additional towns in eastern Ukraine before the year ends. The statements come as Ukraine continues a counter-offensive, with heavy fighting along the front lines.