According to Anadolu Agency, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed his proposal to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Moscow, while adding he is also open to hosting talks in a third country but only to finalize a peace treaty, not for preliminary negotiations.
Speaking to state media, Putin said he believes the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war is coming to an end. He acknowledged the United States is sincerely striving for a resolution, but stressed that ending the conflict is primarily a matter between Moscow and Kyiv.
“We are ready to meet in Moscow, or if President Zelenskyy prefers, in a third country, Putin said. “But such a meeting can only be to finalize a peace treaty, not to discuss intermediate steps.
The Russian leader did not specify what terms he envisions for a final treaty. Previous Russian demands have included Ukraine’s neutrality, limits on its military, and recognition of occupied territories as Russian conditions Kyiv has rejected.
Zelenskyy’s office has not yet formally responded. Ukrainian officials have previously insisted on talks based on international law and Russia’s full withdrawal. While Putin praised U.S. efforts, he warned that direct bilateral negotiations remain the only viable path.
Analysts caution that both sides remain far apart, and any meeting would likely require significant groundwork. Still, Putin’s latest comments represent a rare public opening, even with strict conditions attached.
Related video