Zelensky calls for direct talks with Putin to end war

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine addressed Russian President Vladimir Putin in an open letter, urging direct negotiations between the two countries as the mechanism for ending their war.

Zelensky characterized direct engagement between Ukraine and Russia as the only viable approach to resolving the conflict. He did not specify the format or location for such talks in the available details of his proposal.

The overture from Zelensky comes as U.S. foreign policy attention has shifted toward Iran, potentially creating space for Ukraine and Russia to pursue their own diplomatic channels. The timing and specific impetus for Zelensky's letter were not detailed.

The war between Ukraine and Russia began in February 2022 following Russia's invasion. Since then, both nations have engaged in sustained military operations, with previous peace negotiations stalling or producing limited results. Zelensky's call for face-to-face talks represents a formal push for renewed diplomatic engagement at the highest levels of government.

The letter's release came as part of Zelensky's broader efforts to maintain international attention on Ukraine's conflict while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic channels. Russia's response to Zelensky's proposal had not been announced.