Ukrainian President Zelenski calls for a direct meeting with Putin to discuss a lasting peace, emphasizing Ukraine's readiness for negotiations.

Zelenski reiterated his desire to meet Putin, after the Russian leader gave a positive assessment of the recent peace talks. He stressed that Ukraine is open to direct talks, but demanded that Russia demonstrate a real willingness to end the war. The Kremlin has previously refused direct meetings, demanding greater progress in lower-level talks. Russia is imposing tough conditions, including the ceding of Ukrainian regions, which is unacceptable to Ukraine, which is demanding a full withdrawal of Russian troops and security guarantees.