Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sent an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, published on 4/6, proposing direct dialogue to end the ongoing conflict. "Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct dialogue between us, meaning myself and you," Zelensky stated.
In his letter, President Zelensky suggested setting a specific date for a meeting between the two leaders. He affirmed Ukraine's readiness to establish a comprehensive ceasefire during the period of negotiations. However, Zelensky rejected Moscow as a potential venue for the meeting, a location Russia had previously suggested.
"Everyone heard your representatives smiling and saying that I could come to Moscow," Zelensky remarked, referring to Putin's 26 years in power. "But after 26 years, a Ukrainian leader has nothing to do in your capital, just as a Russian leader has nothing to do in Kiev." He also issued a warning: "If you do not personally conclude that it is time to end this war, Ukraine will continue to fight for its existence."
 |
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (left) and Russian President Vladimir Putin. *Photo: AFP*
The Kremlin responded by stating that Putin had not yet reviewed the letter, but reiterated that the two leaders could meet in Moscow "at any time." Speaking to reporters in St. Petersburg shortly before Zelensky's letter became public, President Putin clarified his conditions for a meeting. He stated he would only meet the Ukrainian leader to finalize an agreement already reached by the two countries, rejecting calls for a meeting before such an agreement is in place.
The Russian leader also expressed renewed skepticism regarding President Zelensky's legitimacy. Putin suggested it was necessary to analyze whether Zelensky remains Ukraine's legitimate leader, given that his 5-year term concluded in 2024. Ukrainian law prohibits the organization of elections during martial law.
 |
US President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office on 4/6. *Photo: AP*
US President Donald Trump welcomed the news, expressing pleasure that the Russian and Ukrainian leaders "may be discussing" a meeting. "I think we've contributed a lot to that," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. "It would be great if they met." The US leader also claimed that both sides would accept compromises he proposed, though he did not provide specific details.
The Ukrainian president has repeatedly called for a meeting with his Russian counterpart, maintaining that only direct dialogue can lead to a territorial agreement. Zelensky, however, rarely sends such direct messages to Putin. Previous US-led negotiation efforts, ongoing for months, have failed to bring Russia and Ukraine closer to a resolution. Russia demands Ukraine withdraw all forces from the Donbass region as a precondition for peace talks, a demand Kiev rejects.
Pham Giang (According to AFP, Ukrainska Pravda)
