Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenski published an open letter to Vladimir Putin, proposing direct talks to bring the war to an end.
The Russian leader replied that he was ready to scope an agreement, but provided Ukraine accepted the compromises developed during his talks with US president Donald Trump in Anchorage, Alaska.
Zelenski's letter has a individual character. The Ukrainian president reminds Putin of the beginnings of his regulation and indicates that the war has led both nations to tragedy.
"When you came to power in Russia over 26 years ago, many people in Ukraine saw you as positive. That's what happened. But that's the past," he wrote.
Zelenski argues that the effects of war are besides increasingly felt by average Russians.
"They don't like our drones and missiles. They don't like petrol shortages and constantly rising prices. They don't like constant restrictions. They don't like that you can't see the end of your war," he said.
In another passage, he indicated that the Kremlin was liable for the conflict. "This war is your individual choice – a war for no real reason." The most crucial part of the letter is the proposal to launch direct negotiations. "Ukraine proposes ending this war in format between you and us. I offer you a meeting," wrote Zelenski.
At the same time, he declared his willingness to suspend the war effort during talks. "Ukraine is ready for full ceasefire – to usage the time erstwhile negotiations will continue".
Vladimir Putin responded to the proposal during a gathering with representatives of global media in St. Petersburg.
– We are surely ready and willing to scope an agreement with Ukraine on the peace path. In particular, based on the arrangements we discussed during the gathering with president Trump in Anchorage, Alaska," said the Russian leader.
Putin added that Moscow accepted the compromises discussed during talks with the American President.
– Russia agrees with the compromises we discussed in Anchorage. The Ukrainian side must besides agree to it. Then the conflict will rapidly and naturally end," he said.
The Russian president has not revealed the details of the proposed compromises. At the same time, he pointed out that Moscow does not intend to quit its territorial objectives to date.
Zelenski's letter and Putin's answer show that both sides declare their readiness to talk, but they inactive share the question of the conditions of possible peace. Kiev proposes direct negotiations and ceasefire, while Moscow expects to accept the arrangements that the Kremlin has already developed during talks with the American administration.
→ develop. ed.
5.06.2026
• Photo: Reuters
