Putin rejects Zelensky's proposal for direct peace talks

08:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Putin rejects Zelensky's proposal for direct peace talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's proposal for face-to-face negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine, arguing that Moscow seeks a comprehensive settlement rather than a temporary ceasefire.

The refusal came after Zelensky published an open letter addressed directly to Putin, marking the first public message of its kind between the two leaders since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. In the letter, Zelensky called for direct dialogue and proposed a meeting in a neutral country such as Switzerland, Turkey or an Arab state. He also offered a complete ceasefire for the duration of negotiations and a full exchange of prisoners of war as a first step toward ending the conflict.

The Ukrainian leader adopted a confrontational tone in his message, arguing that the war was Putin's personal decision rather than the result of disputes over NATO, geopolitics or language issues. Zelensky also pointed to Russia's military setbacks, rising inflation and growing economic dependence on China. The letter was published as Ukraine continued to showcase its ability to strike targets deep inside Russian territory. Kyiv recently argued that such operations strengthen its position in future negotiations.

Speaking during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin dismissed the ceasefire proposal and suggested that Ukraine's objective was to halt Russian military advances. He reiterated Moscow's position that negotiations should focus on a broader agreement addressing long-term issues rather than a temporary suspension of hostilities. Russia has repeatedly stated that any meeting between the two presidents should occur only once a final settlement is ready for signature.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin had not yet reviewed Zelensky's letter and repeated Moscow's longstanding invitation for the Ukrainian president to visit Russia for talks, an offer Zelensky has rejected. Putin previously indicated that he would consider meeting Zelensky in a third country if substantive agreements had already been reached.

The diplomatic exchange comes as international efforts to revive peace negotiations remain stalled. U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed the possibility of a meeting between the two leaders and described such a summit as a positive development. However, Washington's mediation efforts have lost momentum in recent months as attention has shifted toward escalating tensions involving Iran. Zelensky acknowledged this changing geopolitical environment, warning that Ukraine could not afford to wait for the conflict to regain priority on the international agenda.