Kremlin hints at Putin-Zelensky meeting amid secretive demands
The Kremlin has announced that there is a possibility of a meeting between Putin and Zelensky, but this depends on certain conditions. What are the chances for dialogue between Russia and Ukraine?
What do you need to know?
- Meeting between Putin and Zelensky: The Kremlin stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin could meet with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, but only after specific conditions are met.
- Conditions for the meeting: Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov did not disclose what issues need to be resolved before the meeting can occur.
- Talks in Istanbul: On Friday, discussions were held between Russian and Ukrainian delegations, covering topics such as prisoner exchanges.
What conditions must Ukraine meet for Russia?
The Kremlin has not specified exactly what conditions need to be fulfilled for a meeting between Putin and Zelensky to take place. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that these details remain confidential. It is noteworthy that the last meeting between the two leaders occurred in December 2019.
What was agreed upon in Istanbul?
During Friday's talks in Istanbul, Russian and Ukrainian delegations discussed the possibility of a prisoner exchange at a ratio of 1,000 to 1,000 people. However, the Kremlin spokesperson declined to comment on Moscow’s demands, stressing the importance of maintaining confidentiality in the discussions.
What are Russia’s demands?
Bloomberg reported that Russia demanded Ukraine adopt a neutral status, renounce claims for reparations, and recognize the annexation of Crimea along with four other regions. These demands were part of the first direct negotiations between representatives of the two countries in three years.
