Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reacted sharply after rejecting a possible meeting with the Russian president, accusing Moscow of choosing to continue the war.

"Unfortunately, the Russian side has chosen war again. It simply does not want to end the war," Zelensky declared in his daily video message, adding that such a response would disappoint many people in the world.

On the other hand, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he sees no reason for a direct meeting at this stage, emphasizing the need for a lasting peace agreement.

Speaking at the International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Putin also accused the West of negatively impacting the global economy through sanctions, which he described as unilateral.

He also criticized Zelensky's open letter, considering some parts of it to be rude and not sincere about starting talks.

In his open letter, Zelensky proposed a direct meeting with Putin and expressed readiness for a complete ceasefire during the negotiations.

He suggested that the talks be held in a neutral country such as Switzerland, Turkey or countries in the Arab world, ruling out Moscow as a host country.

According to him, leaders should directly address key issues without hiding behind endless technical negotiations.

"First we need to find direct answers between us on the remaining issues," Zelensky said, emphasizing the need for a clear and swift diplomatic process.

© BalkansWeb
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