Zelenskyy sends first public letter to Putin: 'Let's meet directly'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a direct appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposing a face-to-face meeting in a neutral country to negotiate an end to the protracted war. This marks the first time Zelenskyy has publicly addressed Putin with such a proposal since the conflict began in February 2022.

In his letter, Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine's willingness to discuss peace terms, including a full ceasefire during negotiations and the exchange of all prisoners of war as a starting point. "Ukraine proposes to end this war. We must end the war honestly and with dignity, and ensure that war does not happen again," Zelenskyy stated, extending the invitation to Putin. He suggested Switzerland, Turkey, and Arab nations as potential venues, urging a prompt response with a specific date. The Ukrainian president also emphasized the need for U.S. and European participation in the peace process.

Zelenskyy urged Russia to abandon delaying tactics and unreasonable demands, asserting, "The front line should now be the starting point for diplomacy." He warned that if Putin does not agree that it is time to end the war, Ukraine will continue to fight for its survival, supported by allies, and Putin himself would face more struggles for Russia's survival rather than his own.

Following the letter's release, Ukraine's Foreign Minister confirmed it would be officially delivered to the Kremlin through diplomatic channels. Russia acknowledged receiving the letter, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating it would be reported to President Putin. However, Russia countered by suggesting Zelenskyy could visit Moscow for talks, effectively rejecting the third-country meeting proposal. Putin himself expressed skepticism about the meeting's feasibility, questioning Zelenskyy's legitimacy as Ukraine's representative, citing the expiration of his term in May 2024.