Putin says meeting with Zelenskyy possible — but only in Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that he does not rule out the possibility of a personal meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but emphasized that such talks would only take place in Moscow.

Speaking at a press conference following his recent visit to China, Putin addressed the ongoing speculation about direct negotiations between the two leaders amid the continuing war in Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“In general, I have never ruled out the possibility of such a meeting,” Putin said.

However, the Russian president questioned the utility of such talks at the present stage, expressing skepticism about whether they would produce meaningful results.

“Is there any point in these meetings?” he asked rhetorically, indicating doubts over the effectiveness of high-level dialogue under current conditions.

Putin further stressed that Zelenskyy would need to travel to Moscow if he truly wishes to engage in face-to-face discussions, firmly placing the onus on Kyiv to initiate such an encounter.

The remarks come as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues with no visible signs of de-escalation. The Kremlin has maintained its stance that Ukraine must accept certain preconditions before substantive peace talks can take place — demands that Kyiv has consistently rejected, including any concessions on territorial integrity.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have ruled out any negotiations that involve compromising on sovereignty or legitimizing Russia’s occupation of Ukrainian territories, including Crimea and the eastern Donbas region.

By Vafa Guliyeva