Putin says talks with Ukraine possible, but not with Zelenskyy
The Hindu
Putin refuses direct talks with Zelenskyy, claims Ukraine's leader is "illegitimate", while Trump pressures both sides for peace.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday (January 28, 2025) that his country could hold peace talks with Ukraine, but ruled out speaking directly with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whom he called "illegitimate".
The Ukrainian leader responded by saying that Mr. Putin was "afraid" of negotiations and was using "cynical tricks" to prolong the nearly three-year conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump has put pressure on both sides to end the fighting since assuming office on January 20, threatening tougher sanctions on Russia while claiming that Mr. Zelenskyy is ready to negotiate a "deal".
Also Read | Putin says Ukraine conflict could have been avoided had Trump been in office
"If (Zelenskyy) wants to participate in the negotiations, I will allocate people to take part," Mr. Putin said, calling the Ukrainian leader "illegitimate" because his Presidential term expired during martial law.
"If there is a desire to negotiate and find a compromise, let anyone lead the negotiations there... Naturally, we will strive for what suits us, what corresponds to our interests," he added.
Mr. Zelenskyy said that there was a chance to achieve "real peace" but that the Kremlin chief was frustrating efforts to stop the fighting.
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Putin refuses direct talks with Zelenskyy, claims Ukraine's leader is "illegitimate", while Trump pressures both sides for peace.