Kremlin says Putin-Zelensky meeting ‘possible’
(MENAFN) A direct meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky could take place if current peace negotiations between their delegations lead to concrete agreements, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Saturday. His statement followed the first face-to-face talks between Moscow and Kiev since 2022, held in Istanbul the previous day.
According to Russia’s lead negotiator Vladimir Medinsky, both sides agreed to exchange ceasefire proposals and are considering a follow-up meeting. They also finalized a large prisoner exchange deal, with Russia expressing satisfaction with the initial outcome and readiness to continue dialogue.
Peskov emphasized that any potential meeting between Putin and Zelensky depends on the successful outcome of ongoing talks and the finalization of actionable agreements. He also questioned Ukraine’s internal authority, noting that Zelensky’s term has expired and no new elections have been held under martial law, making it unclear who would legally sign any deal on Ukraine’s behalf. Moscow now considers Ukraine’s parliament as the country’s legitimate authority.
Peskov refrained from confirming or denying leaked information regarding Russia’s alleged demands, which include Ukraine adopting neutral status, barring foreign troops and nuclear arms, and recognizing territorial losses. He insisted that the negotiation process must remain confidential to be effective.
He added that Russia has not engaged in discussions with the United States about the Istanbul talks and has no plans to change its delegation. Both parties have agreed to share their ceasefire terms in writing.
Initially, Ukraine and its Western allies had demanded a full 30-day unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for talks—a condition Russia rejected, warning it would only give Kiev time to rearm. Instead, Moscow proposed negotiations without preconditions. Zelensky agreed to participate after pressure from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly urged Ukraine to accept Russia’s proposal immediately.
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