"The most important thing is the purpose of this meeting. Why should they meet?" Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated at a 22/4 press conference, addressing the potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky. "President Putin has said he is ready for a meeting in Moscow anytime."

Peskov stressed the necessity of a clear reason for such a meeting, adding that it must be effective. He concluded, "The purpose can only be to finalize agreements."

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in Moscow in 11/2025. *Reuters*.

According to the Kremlin spokesperson, any meeting between Russian and Ukrainian leaders requires thorough preparation and "political will" from Kiev. He added that Russia has not yet observed such political will.

Peskov reiterated Russia's primary objective in its campaign in Ukraine: to secure its vital interests and prevent Ukrainian attacks on energy and other targets. He also affirmed Russia's readiness for any new negotiations with the United States to resolve the conflict, stating they are prepared "even tomorrow."

Earlier, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha revealed that Ukraine proposed Turkey host a meeting between Ukrainian and Russian leaders to revive stalled peace talks. Turkey's response to this proposal remains unknown. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan informed NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte that Ankara is working to restore negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, urging the involved parties' leaders to convene.

Peace efforts in Ukraine are progressing slowly, primarily due to territorial disagreements. Ukraine proposed freezing the conflict along the current front lines, a suggestion Russia rejected. Moscow seeks full control of Donetsk province, despite Kiev retaining a portion of the territory. Ukraine deems Russia's demand unacceptable.

Ngoc Anh (According to Reuters, AFP)