Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy refused Vladimir Putin’s invitation to meet in Moscow, calling the idea unrealistic. He urged Putin to come to Kyiv instead, stressing that Ukraine remains “under missile attacks and fire every day.” Zelenskyy told ABC News he could not travel “to the capital of this terrorist.”
Moscow Pushes Conditions as Trump Promotes Talks
Former US President Donald Trump promoted direct talks between Zelenskyy and Putin, making them a central goal of his Alaska summit with Putin. Trump later claimed the two leaders would meet after Zelenskyy’s Washington visit and consultations with European leaders. However, Moscow added extra conditions and intensified strikes on Ukrainian cities, delaying progress. Putin declared himself “ready” for talks, but only in Moscow. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov clarified that Zelenskyy received an invitation “to talk, not to capitulate.” Speaking in Paris after a summit of the “coalition of the resolute,” Zelenskyy said inviting him to Moscow proved Russia had no interest in real negotiations.
Zelenskyy Condemns Escalating Attacks and Calls for Action
Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched over 1,300 drones, nearly 900 guided bombs, and around 50 missiles in the first five days of September. He confirmed strikes hit 14 regions across Ukraine. Writing on social media, he accused Moscow of trying to prolong the war and turn diplomacy “into a blatant farce.” He called for stronger sanctions, increased arms deliveries, and tighter restrictions on Russian oil and gas. “There must be a unified response to shelling, destruction, and Russia’s rejection of civilised dialogue,” Zelenskyy stated.
