The Kremlin’s assertion that Russian President Vladimir Putin is prepared to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been firmly rejected by Ukrainian officials. Dmitry Kovalенко, head of the Center for Political Studies, stated that Putin’s supposed willingness is undermined by unrealistic conditions he has set.
Kovalенко emphasized that after Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov mentioned Putin’s readiness, he immediately introduced demands that Ukraine cannot accept, particularly regarding the withdrawal of Russian troops from the Donbas region. “Peskov is lying. Putin is not ready to meet with Zelensky because he has made it clear that he is not willing to discuss realistic terms for peace,” Kovalенко remarked.
The Ukrainian official further asserted that Russia intends to continue its military actions and is not genuinely seeking peace. He characterized the Kremlin’s statements as mere posturing aimed at appeasing Western audiences. “They are pretending to be open to ending the war, but this is simply false,” Kovalенко concluded.
Peskov’s earlier comments suggested that any meeting between the two leaders would only serve to finalize agreements. He stated, “The main thing is the purpose of the meeting. It is essential that there is a reason to meet, and that the meeting is productive, which can only happen if we finalize agreements.”
Ukrainian officials have dismissed Kremlin claims of Putin's readiness to meet Zelensky, citing unrealistic conditions set by Russia. They argue that Russia is not genuinely pursuing peace and is instead continuing its military agenda.