Kyiv has expressed interest in a meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vladimir Putin, potentially mediated by Turkey, to revitalize diplomatic efforts.
Turkey as a Mediator
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan affirmed Ankara’s willingness to facilitate direct talks between Ukraine and Russia, including a potential leaders’ meeting, during the 5th Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday. He stated that both sides must consent to such a meeting.
Putin’s Previous Conditions
In September 2023, Putin did not rule out a meeting with Zelenskyy but proposed Moscow as the location, a condition Zelenskyy rejected due to concerns about neutrality given the ongoing conflict. Putin deemed traveling outside of Russia for negotiations “excessive.”
Putin Questions the Purpose of Talks
During the plenary session of the Eastern Economic Forum in September 2023, Putin questioned the value of a meeting with Zelenskyy, asking, “What would be the point of such a meeting?”
Kremlin’s May 2023 Stance
In May 2023, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated Putin might meet with Zelenskyy if an agreement could be reached. However, Russia’s demands, including territorial concessions from Ukraine, remained obstacles.
Ukraine’s Flexibility on Location
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated on Wednesday, April 22nd, that Kyiv is open to the meeting being hosted by a capital other than Moscow or Minsk, including Turkey, emphasizing the importance of the meeting taking place. Sybiha also confirmed Ukraine’s openness to a meeting involving the Turkish and potentially U.S. presidents.