NewsZelensky exclusive: Ceasefire talks only with Putin

Zelensky exclusive: Ceasefire talks only with Putin

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, is prepared to discuss a ceasefire exclusively with Vladimir Putin. The president's advisor, Mykhailo Podolyak, has ruled out meetings with any other Russian representatives.

Volodymyr Zelensky
Volodymyr Zelensky
Images source: © Getty Images | 2025 Global Images Ukraine
Anna Wajs-Wiejacka

Key information

              
  • Volodymyr Zelensky wants discussions only with Vladimir Putin.
  • The Ukrainian President's advisor, Mykhailo Podolyak, excludes other meetings.
  • Leaders from Ukraine and other nations are calling for a ceasefire.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, has stated his willingness to negotiate an end to the armed conflict with Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia. Mykhailo Podolyak, Zelensky's advisor, stressed that there is no possibility of dialogue with other Russian representatives.

During an interview published on a YouTube channel, Podolyak mentioned that meetings with other Russian officials, such as former Minister of Culture Vladimir Medinsky, are not a consideration.

The president cannot meet with (...), especially Medinsky. This would only create more uncertainty — the Polish Press Agency cites his words.

Trump and talks in Istanbul

Previously, US President Donald Trump proposed flying to Turkey for the planned Russian-Ukrainian discussions. Trump stated he would attend the talks in Istanbul if his presence was deemed helpful.

On Saturday, the leaders of Ukraine, Poland, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom urged Russia to agree to a 30-day ceasefire. Should Russia refuse, they threaten sanctions on its energy and banking sectors. This truce proposal also received support from President Trump.

It remains unknown whether a meeting between Zelensky and Putin will take place. The situation is evolving, and international pressure on Russia is mounting.

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