Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said he is prepared to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, provided there is adequate preparation.
Putin stated that Zelensky could visit Moscow if there is a prospect of a favourable outcome, during a press conference in Beijing broadcast on state television at the conclusion of his four-day visit to China.
His comments come amid ongoing efforts to bring about an end to Moscow’s war on its neighbour.
Zelensky has repeatedly called for a meeting with Putin to negotiate directly over a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict, launched by the Kremlin in 2022.
But Putin has consistently emphasized that he is only willing to meet if the meeting is well-prepared, and Russia continues heavy assaults as the discussions drag on.
Putin also said he had discussed the matter with US President Donald Trump. “Donald asked me if it was possible to organize such a meeting. I said: Yes, that is possible. Ultimately, Zelensky can come to Moscow if he is ready – such a meeting will take place,” said Putin, addressing the press for the first time since his summit with Trump in Alaska last month.
Putin also again questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy to conduct negotiations, repeating his argument that Zelensky’s regular term of office expired last year.
Նյութերը գեներացվում են տարբեր կայքերից արհեստական բանականության միջոցով