Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy used an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin to propose direct negotiations aimed at ending the war, urging a structured diplomatic process to bring the conflict to a close.
Zelenskyy proposed that the two leaders meet in a neutral country such as Switzerland, Turkey, or a location in the Arab world, with Europe and the United States included as security guarantors in the broader process. He said direct engagement between Kyiv and Moscow is necessary to address core issues that previous agreements failed to resolve.
He also called for a full ceasefire during negotiations, an all-for-all exchange of prisoners of war, and steps to return civilians and children taken during the conflict. Zelenskyy argued that a verified halt in hostilities would create the conditions needed for meaningful dialogue.
Zelenskyy warned that if Russia refuses to engage, Ukraine will continue fighting with international support, but said the war can still be ended through direct engagement and mutual security guarantees, stressing that the decision rests with Moscow.
Source: President Zelenskyy on X
