Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy refused Vladimir Putin’s proposal to meet in Moscow, calling it unrealistic. Zelenskyy told ABC News he cannot visit Moscow because Ukraine faces daily missile strikes. He insisted that Putin should come to Kyiv for negotiations instead.
U.S. Pushes Direct Talks
U.S. President Donald Trump advocated face-to-face meetings between Zelenskyy and Putin. He made the talks a key goal during his Alaska summit with Putin. Trump said the leaders would meet after Zelenskyy visits Washington and consults European leaders. Moscow added conditions, delaying talks and increasing attacks on Ukrainian cities. Putin claimed he was “ready” to meet, but only in Moscow. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Zelenskyy received the invitation “to talk, not to capitulate.” Zelenskyy criticized the Moscow venue, saying Russia clearly does not want real negotiations.
Russia Escalates Attacks, Zelenskyy Calls for Action
Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched over 1,300 drones, nearly 900 guided bombs, and roughly 50 missiles in five days. The strikes hit 14 Ukrainian regions. Zelenskyy accused Russia of trying to prolong the war and turn diplomacy “into a blatant farce.” He urged allies to strengthen sanctions, expand weapons supplies, and restrict Russian oil and gas trade. He called for a united response to attacks and diplomatic obstruction.
