Zelenskyy Publicly Calls on Putin to Hold Direct Negotiations in Neutral Country

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy released a public letter calling on Russian President Vladimir Putin to conduct face-to-face negotiations in a neutral country.

Zelenskyy's open letter represents a direct diplomatic appeal to Putin regarding the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The Ukrainian leader proposed that talks take place on neutral ground rather than in either nation's territory.

The letter came as a public statement, signaling Zelenskyy's willingness to pursue direct dialogue with the Russian president. Zelenskyy did not specify which country might serve as a neutral venue or provide additional details about the proposed agenda for such negotiations.

The initiative follows months of warfare between Ukrainian and Russian forces. Ukraine has faced sustained military operations since Russia's invasion began in February 2022.

Zelenskyy's proposal through the open letter format reached a broad audience rather than operating through private diplomatic channels. The approach underscored the Ukrainian leader's effort to communicate directly about potential peace discussions.

Russia has not publicly responded to Zelenskyy's call for direct negotiations as of the letter's release.