Putin rules out meeting Zelensky; vows to pursue war goals

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ruled out any possibility of meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signaling a continued hardline stance on the conflict. Putin affirmed his commitment to achieving Russia's stated war goals in Ukraine.

The Kremlin's demands remain firm: Russia insists on control over Ukraine's eastern Donbas region. Additionally, Russia seeks the implementation of broad political and military restrictions on its neighbor, Ukraine.

This stance indicates no immediate prospect for de-escalation or direct high-level negotiation between the two leaders. Putin's declaration suggests Russia intends to press forward with its military objectives, despite international pressure and the ongoing conflict.

The core demands, including territorial control in Donbas and imposed limitations on Ukraine's sovereignty, represent significant obstacles to any potential peace settlement.

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Putin rules out meeting Zelensky; vows to pursue war goals