Putin offers Ukraine talks but demands Zelenskyy lift ban on negotiations
Russian leader Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to engage in negotiations with Ukraine over the ongoing conflict, but only if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lifts the existing ban on talks with the current Kremlin leadership, the Russian state news agency TASS reports.
Putin claims that any negotiations would be illegitimate if Zelenskyy does not revoke the prohibition. He also referenced statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has shown interest in meeting with Putin, indicating that Russia remains open to such discussions.
Putin's demand revolves around a decision made by Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, enacted by Zelenskyy in September 2022, which bans negotiations with the current Russian leader.
Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian President's Office, responded to Putin's comments, asserting that the Kremlin leader is attempting to "push the idea of negotiations with the U.S." but wants to discuss Ukraine "without Ukraine."
"This will not happen. Putin needs to return to reality himself, or he will be brought back," Yermak stated.
Putin's statement comes amid Trump's threats of taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on all Russian exports to the U.S. and other countries if Moscow does not cease its war against Ukraine and agree to a peace settlement.
Trump also promised to negotiate with Saudi Arabia to lower global oil prices to pressure Russia. Earlier, he mentioned plans to meet with Putin "very quickly" after his inauguration, with Switzerland and Serbia expressing readiness to host such a meeting.
The U.S. administration had also been preparing for a phone call with the Russian leader.