Putin Open to Meeting Zelenskyy for Peace Talks Amid Ukraine Conflict

Putin's Willingness to Engage with Zelenskyy

In a significant development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated his readiness to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the first time since the onset of the conflict. Putin proposed that the meeting could take place in Moscow or a neutral location, aiming for a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing war. He expressed his belief that the conflict in Ukraine is "drawing to a close." During a press briefing following the Victory Day Parade, Putin clarified that he has never declined a meeting with Zelenskyy, but emphasized that any discussions in a third country would only be feasible after a thorough, long-term peace agreement is established, intended solely for the signing of the accord.

"I have heard again that the Ukrainian side, including Mr. Zelenskyy, is open to a personal meeting. We have never turned down such an opportunity; I have not refused. If they wish to meet, those interested can come to Moscow," Putin stated. He further added, "We can also convene in a third country, but only after a definitive agreement on a peace deal is reached. This meeting should be for signing, not for negotiations."

Putin highlighted that initial discussions should be conducted by experts. He noted, "We understand what these negotiations might entail based on the Minsk accords. One can talk for hours without achieving results. We need specialists to clarify matters for both parties. Only then can we meet to sign or participate in a ceremony." The Minsk Accords were agreements established in 2014 and 2015 in Belarus, aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine's Donbas region between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed separatists.