Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy refused Vladimir Putin’s invitation to meet in Moscow, calling the proposal unrealistic. He argued that suggesting Moscow as a venue proves Russia has no genuine interest in real negotiations. In an interview with ABC News, Zelenskyy said, “I can’t go to the capital of this terrorist” because Ukraine faces daily missile strikes and constant fire. Instead, he invited Putin to come to Kyiv for direct discussions.
International Pressure and Stalled Negotiations
US President Donald Trump has pushed for face-to-face talks between the Russian and Ukrainian leaders. A direct meeting, whether bilateral or trilateral, was a major goal of Trump’s Alaska summit with Putin. Trump later claimed that Putin and Zelenskyy would meet after the Ukrainian president’s visit to Washington and consultations with European leaders. However, Moscow attached new conditions, delayed decisions, and intensified shelling of Ukrainian cities. Putin declared he was “ready” to meet in Moscow, while Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the invitation aimed “to talk, not to capitulate.” Speaking in Paris, Zelenskyy remarked, “If you want the meeting not to happen, you should invite me to Moscow.” He added that simply hearing Russia consider a meeting marked limited progress. Trump told CBS News, “Something will happen, but they are not ready yet … We’re going to do it,” without giving a clear timeline.
Escalating Attacks and Zelenskyy’s Demands
On Saturday, Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched more than 1,300 drones, nearly 900 guided bombs, and about 50 missiles against Ukraine in the first five days of September. He confirmed the strikes hit 14 regions across the country. He accused Russia of prolonging the war and turning diplomacy into a farce. Zelenskyy urged Ukraine’s partners to deliver a united response to Russia’s shelling, destruction, and dismissal of dialogue. He called for stronger sanctions on Moscow, increased weapons supplies to Kyiv, and tougher restrictions on Russian oil and gas exports.
