Zelensky Proposes Ceasefire and Meeting with Putin Amid Ukraine's Military Gains
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has extended an open invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for a face-to-face meeting to negotiate an end to the ongoing war, which has entered its fifth year. Zelensky's proposal comes as Ukraine demonstrates its military capabilities by striking deep into Russian territory, including a recent drone attack on St. Petersburg. In his letter, Zelensky suggests neutral locations such as Switzerland, Turkey, or an Arab country for the meeting and emphasizes Ukraine's readiness for a full ceasefire during negotiations. He highlights the growing fatigue among Russians towards the war and suggests that Putin's hold on power may be weakening. Meanwhile, Putin maintains that Russian forces are advancing and insists on assurances from previous discussions with President Trump as part of any agreement.