Zelenskyy sought Abramovich's mediation for Putin meeting, FT reports

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attempted to secure a direct peace negotiation with Russian President Vladimir Putin by enlisting the mediation of former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, according to four sources familiar with the matter cited by the Financial Times.

Zelenskyy reportedly summoned Abramovich to Kyiv, tasking him with delivering a message to Putin. The Ukrainian president expressed his readiness for a bilateral summit more than four years after Russia's full-scale invasion began. This move was intended to underscore Kyiv's commitment to direct peace talks, particularly as the United States, focused on the Middle East conflict, seeks a ceasefire.

Sources suggest Kyiv believed its success in halting Russian advances, coupled with significant Russian losses and cross-border attacks into Russian territory, could increase pressure for an immediate truce. However, Putin reportedly remains convinced of Russia's superior capabilities and has shown no interest in meeting Zelenskyy. Putin mentioned meeting "one of our business circles" on May 21, after Abramovich's return from Kyiv, stating he saw no reason for a meeting unless Ukraine ceased its military advance.

Abramovich, who is under sanctions, had previously played a mediating role between Russia and Ukraine early in the war, participating in collapsed talks in March 2022. He also facilitated the Black Sea grain deal later that year. Although his direct involvement has lessened, he has remained active in prisoner exchanges and other bilateral contacts, including discussions on a stalled U.S.-backed peace plan.