Zelensky Proposes Direct Talks With Putin to End Ukraine War

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of efforts to end the war between the two countries, urging Moscow to embrace direct negotiations and agree to a ceasefire.

Zelensky made the proposal in an open letter to the Russian leader on Thursday, as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict gained renewed attention and the Kremlin acknowledged the need to strengthen Russia’s air defences following a series of Ukrainian drone attacks.

Zelensky Calls for Ceasefire and Direct Negotiations

In the letter, Zelensky said Ukraine was prepared to suspend hostilities for the duration of negotiations and called on Putin to engage directly in talks aimed at ending the war.

“Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between us—and you. I am proposing a meeting,” Zelensky said.

“I propose to set a clear date for such a meeting.”

“Ukraine is ready for a full ceasefire for the duration of the negotiations,” he added.

The Ukrainian leader published the letter a day after Ukrainian drones targeted sites in Saint Petersburg, Putin’s hometown, during a major international economic forum.

Zelensky has repeatedly argued that only direct talks with Putin can produce a lasting agreement, particularly on territorial disputes that remain at the centre of the conflict.

However, the Kremlin said Putin had not yet been shown the letter.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov later said Zelensky could meet Putin in Moscow “any time”, although the Ukrainian president has previously ruled out travelling to the Russian capital for talks.

Trump Backs Meeting as Peace Efforts Continue

United States President Donald Trump welcomed the possibility of a direct meeting between the two leaders, saying it could help advance efforts to end the conflict.

“I think it would be great if they met. They should — get it done,” Trump told reporters at the White House.

Trump said Washington had played a role in encouraging dialogue between both sides and urged Ukraine and Russia to make compromises to achieve peace.

Months of international mediation efforts have failed to secure a breakthrough, with major disagreements remaining over territory and security guarantees.

Russia continues to demand that Ukraine withdraw from parts of the eastern Donbas region as a condition for broader peace talks, a proposal Kyiv has rejected.

Putin Admits Russia Must Strengthen Air Defences

The renewed diplomatic activity comes as Ukraine intensifies long-range drone attacks on Russian military and energy infrastructure.

Speaking in Saint Petersburg on Thursday, Putin acknowledged the need to improve Russia’s air defence systems after Ukrainian drones struck an oil terminal and a naval facility near the city.

“Russia has an air defence system. Yes, we must improve it. Yes, we must strengthen it. And we will do so,” Putin said.

The Russian leader also rejected suggestions that Moscow’s military campaign had become a strategic failure, insisting Russian forces were continuing to make gains along the front line.

At the same time, he reiterated that Russia remains willing to pursue a peaceful settlement.

“We are absolutely ready and willing to reach an agreement with Ukraine through peaceful means,” Putin said.

The war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, remains Europe’s largest armed conflict in decades, with both sides continuing military operations despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a negotiated settlement.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.