Zelensky Signals Willingness for Direct Peace Talks with Putin

The Ukrainian president expressed conditional openness to negotiations involving Russia, the US, and the EU, while Moscow dismissed his statements as insubstantial.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated he is prepared for direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin if it is the only way to secure peace for Ukraine.
Zelensky suggested a potential four-party negotiation format including Ukraine, Russia, the United States, and the European Union, though no specifics were confirmed.
The Kremlin dismissed Zelensky's remarks as 'empty words,' reiterating its stance that he is 'illegitimate' and rejecting direct talks with him.
The return of Donald Trump to the US presidency has renewed speculation about peace talks, with Trump emphasizing a desire to end the conflict quickly.
Zelensky maintained that any peace agreement must include strong security guarantees for Ukraine, while Russia continues to demand Ukraine's neutrality and recognition of annexed territories.