Zelenskyy discusses potential meeting with Putin in Kiev
In the midst of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has been persisting for over three and a half years, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected Moscow as a possible venue for a meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Zelensky's decision comes after Putin expressed openness for a meeting in Moscow if it promises a favorable outcome. However, Zelensky cannot travel to Moscow while Ukraine is being attacked daily.
Putin has called for a meeting with Zelensky to negotiate a ceasefire, but the Russian leader believes that talks in Moscow would strengthen the Kremlin's negotiating position, as they view themselves as having an advantage on the front lines.
Several parties have offered to mediate a meeting between Zelensky and Putin, including Ukraine's negotiator Rustem Umjewrow, who has engaged with Turkey, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Switzerland, all willing to host such a meeting. However, no specific location has been confirmed yet.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Putin is only ready to meet Zelensky when there is a clear agenda, which is not currently prepared. Putin questioned the necessity of talks during an economic forum in Vladivostok on Friday.
Zelensky's response to Putin's invitation was sarcastic, suggesting that if Putin doesn't want a meeting to happen, he should invite Zelensky to Moscow. At least seven countries have offered to host a summit between Zelensky and Putin, including Turkey and three Gulf states, which are considered neutral in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Putin once again denied the legitimacy of Zelensky, further complicating the prospects of a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The ongoing standoff between the two leaders continues to cast a shadow over the future of Ukraine and the region as a whole.
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