During the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Vladimir Putin revealed that Donald Trump has requested a peace compromise, while Volodymyr Zelensky responded with an open letter proposing a direct meeting.
Putin’s Stance on Negotiations and Trump’s Role
Vladimir Putin stated at the St. Petersburg conference that Moscow possesses the resources to achieve its military objectives but remains open to a peace deal. He confirmed that President Trump had requested a compromise regarding Ukraine, which Russia is willing to consider if Kyiv reciprocates.
The Russian leader emphasized that a ceasefire is not a prerequisite for negotiations, despite Kyiv’s repeated demands. Putin suggested that Trump’s proposals could form a foundation for peace, provided the American president can persuade Kyiv to engage.
Zelensky’s Counter-Proposal and Warning to Moscow
Volodymyr Zelensky published an open letter proposing a bilateral meeting to end the war. He noted that the conflict is losing support among Russians and warned that Ukraine is prepared to fully halt fire during formal negotiations.
The Ukrainian president highlighted the impact of long-range drone strikes on Russian soil, stating that the war has exhausted Russia’s resources and political capital. Zelensky reported over 30,000 Russian casualties in May alone and urged Putin not to fear ending the conflict, affirming Ukraine’s commitment to independence.
Diplomatic Meddling and Military Capabilities
Putin suggested that the European Union should pressure Ukraine to accept a compromise and proposed former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as a mediator, an idea rejected by European nations and Kyiv. He also signaled a willingness to resume gas supplies to Germany via Nord Stream, provided Berlin agrees.
Regarding military capabilities, Putin claimed that Russia has only tested the Oreshnik hypersonic missile against Ukraine rather than deploying it in full combat capacity. He noted that future use of the weapon against urban targets remains a possibility.