Russian President Vladimir Putin has declined a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following Zelensky’s direct plea for face-to-face discussions in a personal letter. Putin criticized the letter as “rude” and rejected the proposed “direct engagement” to resolve the ongoing conflict.
During a speech at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin expressed his displeasure with the tone of Zelensky’s letter, questioning its intent and suggesting it hindered the possibility of constructive dialogue. Zelensky’s letter, which also hinted at potential unrest in Russia, called for an end to hostilities and highlighted the toll the war has taken on Russian soldiers.
Zelensky proposed neutral locations like Switzerland, Turkey, or an Arab country for the meeting, emphasizing the importance of leaders coming together to address crucial issues. Meanwhile, the Russian state-owned TASS news agency reported Putin’s criticism of Zelensky’s offer, citing recent incidents such as a Ukrainian drone strike on a college dorm in the Russian-occupied city of Starobilsk.
Putin further condemned Ukraine for alleged crimes, including the killing of children, and referenced a conversation with an acquaintance who had interacted with Zelensky in Kyiv. Despite the ongoing tensions, Zelensky reiterated his call for a meeting to address the conflict, emphasizing the need for leaders to engage directly in resolving key issues.