Kremlin: Putin ready to meet Zelenskyy only to seal peace deals

Speaking to Russian state broadcaster Vesti, Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed that Vladimir Putin maintains consistent willingness to engage directly with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, the presidential spokesperson stressed that any encounter between the two leaders must serve a specific and productive purpose. According to Peskov, the fundamental prerequisite remains the meeting's objective, questioning the utility of a summit without concrete outcomes. He indicated that Putin remains prepared to host such discussions in the Russian capital at any moment, provided the agenda centers exclusively on concluding established accords rather than exploratory dialogue.

Kyiv responds with flexibility and firm boundaries

Earlier the same day, the Ukrainian president addressed media representatives, stating that Kyiv maintains readiness to participate in diplomatic discussions regardless of format or timing. However, he contended that the initiation of renewed dialogue remains beyond Ukraine's control, suggesting that external factors currently block the path to reconciliation.

Previous diplomatic efforts face obstacles

American-facilitated negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv have occurred on multiple previous occasions, though the agency report indicates that the Iran war has subsequently stalled these mediation efforts. The interruption of US-mediated channels has left both capitals trading public statements rather than concrete proposals, with each side seeking to shape preconditions for any renewed engagement. As regional powers including Türkiye continue offering their good offices, the international community awaits signals that substantive preparatory work might resume, potentially clearing the path for the high-level meeting Moscow demands.