Putin Open to Zelensky Meeting Following Expert Consultations

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed openness to a face-to-face meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, contingent upon necessary preparatory work at the expert level. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that such a meeting would only occur after specific conditions are met, though details of these conditions remain unspecified. Putin's demands, unchanged since summer 2024, include Ukraine's official recognition of annexed territories, guarantees of neutrality, demilitarization, and a pledge not to join NATO, which Kyiv views as requirements for its capitulation. Despite stalled peace talks and escalating tensions, including nuclear rhetoric between Russia and the United States, Ukraine has proposed moving from technical-level discussions to direct leader talks. Additionally, meetings between Putin and White House special envoy Steve Witkoff, as well as U.S. special representative Kellogg's potential visit to Ukraine, are anticipated ahead of a U.S.-imposed ceasefire deadline. These developments indicate a cautious opening toward negotiations, though significant obstacles and geopolitical tensions persist.