During an economic forum in Saint Petersburg, Vladimir Putin revealed that Donald Trump has requested a peace compromise regarding Ukraine, while Volodymyr Zelensky issued an open invitation for direct talks to end the conflict.
Putin’s Stance on Potential Peace Talks
Speaking at the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum on June 4, Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow possesses the resources to achieve its military objectives but remains open to a peace agreement. Putin confirmed that Donald Trump had personally requested a compromise regarding the war, noting that Moscow is willing to engage if Kyiv reciprocates.
The Russian leader emphasized that a ceasefire is not a prerequisite for negotiations, despite Kyiv’s demands. He suggested that if a peace deal is reached, Russia would sign it with legitimate Ukrainian representatives, potentially including Zelensky himself.
Zelensky’s Open Letter and Call for Peace
On the same day, President Zelensky published an open letter to Putin proposing a meeting to end the war. He stated that Ukraine is prepared for a full ceasefire during the negotiation process, warning that the Russian public is becoming increasingly disillusioned with the conflict as they feel the effects of drone attacks, fuel shortages, and mobilization.
Zelensky highlighted the heavy toll of the war, citing reports of over 30,000 Russian casualties in May alone. He urged Putin to abandon the conflict, arguing that Russia’s resources are dwindling and that Ukraine will maintain its independence regardless of current projections.
Mediation Efforts and Regional Tensions
Putin suggested that the European Union could help convince Kyiv to accept a compromise, though he expressed concern over the EU potentially evolving into a military bloc. He also offered to resume gas supplies via the Nord Stream pipeline, contingent on German authorities, and suggested former Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as a potential mediator.
Regarding military capabilities, Putin confirmed that the Oreshnik hypersonic missile—capable of carrying nuclear warheads—has been tested but not yet used against Ukraine in actual combat. He added that the missile’s future use against urban targets remains a possibility.