Zelenskyy calls for face-to-face Ukraine war negotiations in letter to Putin Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly written to Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposing face-to-face negotiations in a neutral third country, such as Switzerland, Turkey, or Arab states. Zelenskyy’s letter, a significant criticism of Putin’s leadership, comes as Ukraine seeks to capitalize on recent battlefield gains while Russia intensifies aerial attacks and bolsters its air defenses. Former President Trump has expressed support for the meeting, emphasizing that both sides must be willing to make compromises.

• Zelenskyy has written a public letter to Putin proposing face-to-face negotiations.
• The proposed meeting would take place in a neutral third country, not Moscow or Kyiv.
• Switzerland, Turkey, or Arab states are suggested as potential hosts.
• Zelenskyy criticized Putin’s 26 years in power and suggested Russia plans to prolong the war.
• Putin acknowledged recent Ukrainian drone attacks and stated Russia would strengthen its air defenses.
• Putin previously suggested compromise in line with understandings from his summit with Donald Trump.
• Trump supports the idea of Zelenskyy meeting Putin, stating both sides must compromise.
• The US House of Representatives passed legislation to aid Ukraine and sanction Russia, overriding some Republican objections.
• Zelenskyy proposed a full ceasefire for negotiations and an all-for-all prisoner exchange.
• Zelenskyy accused Moscow of seeking to draw Belarus into the conflict and destabilize Transnistria.