Zelenskyy declined Putin's suggestion for a meeting in Moscow and instead proposed a discussion in Kyiv.

Russia's military offensive against Ukraine has intensified in recent days, with reports indicating that Moscow launched over 1,300 drones, nearly 900 guided bombs, and approximately 50 missiles at various regions of Ukraine between September 1 and 5. The strikes hit 14 regions of Ukraine, causing widespread destruction and raising concerns about the escalating conflict.

In the midst of this escalation, US President Donald Trump has been advocating for face-to-face talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump stated that something will happen regarding talks between Putin and Zelenskyy, but without specifying a timeline for acceptable talks.

However, Zelenskyy has rejected a meeting with Putin in Moscow, citing the ongoing missile attacks and daily fire as reasons for his decision. Zelenskyy stated, "Ukraine is under missile attacks, and I cannot go to the capital of Russia for a meeting."

Putin, on the other hand, has expressed his readiness to meet with Zelenskyy, but only in Moscow. This choice of meeting place has been met with criticism from Zelenskyy, who suggested that Putin should come to Kyiv instead. Zelenskyy called the choice of Moscow as a meeting place unrealistic and a delaying tactic by Moscow to prolong the war and turn diplomacy into a farce.

Moscow has been adding conditions to any potential meeting, further delaying a decision and increasing shelling of Ukrainian cities. In response, Zelenskyy has urged Ukraine's partners to strengthen sanctions against Moscow, increase arms supplies to Ukraine, and impose effective restrictions on Russian oil and gas trade.

Zelenskyy's call for action comes as he continues to seek a diplomatic solution to the conflict. During a visit to Paris, Zelenskyy commented on Putin's invitation, stating that if the meeting is not desired, he should be invited to Moscow. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded, stating that Zelenskyy was invited to Moscow "to talk, not to capitulate."

As the conflict continues, Zelenskyy has called for a common response to the shelling and destruction, urging Western nations to take action to support Ukraine and put an end to Russia's aggression. The Ukrainian President has called on 26 Western countries, including members of the "coalition of the willing" such as the United States, Germany, France, and other European nations, to strengthen sanctions against Russia, increase weapons deliveries to Ukraine, and ensure more effective oil and gas supplies to Ukraine.