Russia Is Open to Negotiations With Zelenskyy, Says Kremlin Spokesperson

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed Russia’s willingness to engage in negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while also reaffirming its stance on his legitimacy.

According to Peskov, the Kremlin does not recognize Zelenskyy as the legitimate president of Ukraine. However, despite this stance, Moscow is prepared to engage in discussions.

Peskov also suggested that Kyiv should be the primary initiator of peace negotiations, pointing to the current situation on the battlefield.

The Kremlin’s statements follow previous comments by Putin, who had said that while negotiations on the war in Ukraine could take place with any representative, Zelenskyy’s supposed “illegitimacy” prevents him from signing any agreements. Putin indicated that Russia could appoint delegates for talks with Zelenskyy if he expressed willingness to negotiate.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in an interview with Piers Morgan that he would be willing to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin if it were the only way to achieve peace and prevent further loss of Ukrainian lives.

He emphasized that personal feelings were irrelevant in such a scenario, calling Putin an enemy but acknowledging that negotiations could be necessary to protect Ukraine’s citizens.