In a significant diplomatic move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reached out to Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposing a direct meeting to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict between their nations. Zelensky’s proposal was made public in an open letter, coinciding with Putin’s appearance at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

Call for Direct Engagement

Zelensky’s letter highlighted the growing discomfort among Russians with the prolonged conflict and its negative consequences. He pointed out that Russian military goals, such as capturing the Ukrainian region of Donetsk, remain unfulfilled. Zelensky emphasized the urgency of peace talks, suggesting they should not be delayed until the United States shifts its focus from Iran back to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.

“Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between us,” Zelensky wrote, advocating for a meeting in a neutral country with a clear date set. He also stressed the importance of establishing a full ceasefire as a prerequisite for meaningful dialogue.

Response from the Kremlin

The Kremlin acknowledged Zelensky’s letter, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that Putin would be briefed on the proposal. However, Peskov suggested that if Zelensky wishes to meet, he should travel to Moscow, a suggestion Zelensky has already dismissed as a non-starter.

Meanwhile, at the forum, Putin mentioned that proposals from former U.S. President Donald Trump could serve as a basis for peace agreements, provided both countries are willing to compromise. “We generally agreed to these compromises,” Putin said, indicating a potential path forward if Ukraine can be persuaded to agree.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.