Zelensky makes a direct appeal to Putin and proposes a meeting to end the war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed an open letter to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putinin which he proposed a meeting between the two leaders to negotiate an end to more than four years of war. While extending an olive branch to Moscow, he warned that Ukraine was prepared to continue fighting if no agreement was reached.

In this letter, also sent to several countries, including the United States, Zelensky asserts that a majority of Russians are now weary of the consequences of the conflict. He cites, in particular, Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian territory, rising inflation, and fuel shortages as factors fueling a desire for peace among the population.

The Ukrainian head of state also believes that the international situation necessitates swift action. According to him, while Washington is focusing a significant portion of its attention on tensions with Iran, it would be dangerous for Kyiv to wait until war in Europe once again becomes a top priority for the United States.

Zelensky proposes that a diplomatic process begin directly from the front lines. He advocates for a complete ceasefire for the duration of the negotiations, believing it to be an essential condition for creating a favorable climate for discussions. He also asserted that the United States has the necessary means to monitor and verify compliance with such a truce.

The Ukrainian president suggested holding a meeting on a specific date in a third country. He cited several states that could host the talks, including Switzerland, Turkey, and certain Arab countries that have already played a mediating role in international crises.

In a particularly direct passage of his letter, Zelensky urges Vladimir Putin to seize this opportunity to end the conflict. “Don’t be afraid to end this war,” he writes, calling on the Russian leader to engage in dialogue that could pave the way for the most significant attempt at a political settlement to the conflict in several years.