On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his ongoing interest in peace talks with Ukrainian President Voldymir Zelensky, even inviting him for a meeting in Moscow. However, Zelensky is unlikely to accept the offer, primarily due to safety concerns and anger over Putin’s escalating attacks on Ukrainian cities.
During a press conference in Beijing, where he attended a World War I victory parade, Putin stated he has never turned down a meeting if it’s properly prepared and could result in positive outcomes. He mentioned that former President Donald Trump had asked about arranging such a meeting and indicated it could happen when Zelensky is ready to come to Moscow.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andri Sibikha reacted to Putin’s comments with skepticism, suggesting that the Russian leader continually undermines any negotiations he claims to be pursuing. He dismissed the idea of Zelensky visiting Putin’s location in Moscow as impractical.
Sibikha mentioned that at least seven countries, including three Gulf states—Austria, the Holy See, Switzerland, and Turkey—are currently willing to facilitate talks between Ukraine and Russia to end the conflict. He emphasized that President Zelensky is open to these discussions, but criticized Putin for making unrealistic proposals.
Zelensky himself humorously turned down Putin’s invitation. He remarked, “If you want to prevent meetings from happening, you need to invite me to Moscow,” adding that he believes if Putin aims to avoid dialogue, he should be the one invited to Moscow instead. Zelensky did express a desire for Putin at least to discuss potential peace talks, noting that while Russia has started mentioning conferences, there hasn’t been a genuine effort to conclude the war.
Meanwhile, Russian forces launched a massive attack last night, firing 502 drones and 24 missiles into Ukraine. Reports indicate that 430 drones and 21 missiles were intercepted. Damage from the assaults was reported across multiple locations, including a strike on Kiev, the capital.
Zelensky condemned Russia’s actions, calling them “empirical and ironic,” particularly given the timing with meetings involving Trump and European leaders. He criticized that, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, Russian military actions continue to devastate lives, describing Putin’s efforts as attempts to maintain pressure on Ukraine and humiliate Ukraine’s diplomatic initiatives.
