Putin pours cold water on Zelensky meeting

Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected the possibility of a face-to-face meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss ending the war, stating there was 'no point' for such talks at this time. Speaking at Russia’s annual economic forum in St. Petersburg on Friday, Putin criticized Zelensky’s recent open letter proposing direct negotiations, calling it 'rude.' He argued that halting military actions would only allow Ukraine to rearm without meeting Moscow’s demands, emphasizing that military operations would continue until Russia achieves its objectives. Putin’s comments followed Zelensky’s appeal for a meeting in a neutral country, framed as an effort to prevent the war from fading from global attention amid U.S. focus on Iran. Zelensky’s letter urged Putin to engage directly to end the conflict, which has entered its fifth year. Putin dismissed the proposal, insisting that any potential talks would require long-term agreements, not temporary pauses. In parallel, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a measure on Thursday to provide military aid to Ukraine and impose further sanctions on Russia. The legislation passed with bipartisan support, including 18 Republicans and one independent joining Democrats, underscoring continued Western backing for Ukraine despite Putin’s defiance of diplomatic engagement. Putin suggested that a meeting could occur only after 'experts' develop solutions, but he reiterated that Moscow’s military goals would not be compromised. His stance reflects Russia’s insistence on controlling key territories while Ukraine and its allies push for a negotiated end to the war. The exchange highlights deep divisions between the two leaders, with Zelensky seeking diplomatic avenues and Putin prioritizing military strategy over negotiations. The U.S. funding decision further isolates Russia, reinforcing international pressure on Putin’s government.