MOSCOW, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Any potential peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine should guarantee the long-term security of both countries, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday.

"The final signing of the documents is a very serious issue that should guarantee the security of both Ukraine and Russia for a serious, long time in the future," he said during an interview with local media.

Ukraine can designate anyone to negotiate with Russia, but it must be signed by legitimate Ukrainian authorities when a deal is made, Putin said, adding that Volodymyr Zelensky is no longer the rightful president of Ukraine.

Putin urged Ukraine to revoke the decree signed by Zelensky on banning negotiation with Russia, saying otherwise any talks between the two countries will be illegal.

Putin emphasized that Russia will defend its national interests during the process of settling the Ukrainian issue. Enditem

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