Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed the possibility of meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying there is “no point” in holding direct talks following Zelensky’s call for face-to-face negotiations to end the ongoing war.
The exchange came after Zelensky issued an open letter urging immediate dialogue and calling for a ceasefire, arguing that continued delay would only prolong the conflict that began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Putin, speaking at Russia’s annual economic forum in St Petersburg, rejected the proposal and described Zelensky’s letter as “rude”, insisting that any ceasefire would simply allow Ukraine to regroup militarily.
He maintained that peace talks should come first, followed by a broader agreement, and reiterated Moscow’s position that the war would only end once Russia’s objectives are achieved.
Zelensky responded by accusing Russia of “choosing war again”, saying the refusal showed a lack of genuine willingness to end the conflict and claiming the international community would be disappointed by the stance.
The Ukrainian leader has continued to push for diplomatic engagement while rejecting territorial concessions, arguing that giving ground would encourage future aggression.
The war, now in its third year, remains deadlocked, with both sides continuing military operations while international pressure for negotiations continues to mount.
