Zelenskyy discusses potential meeting with Putin in Kiev

The ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Ukraine and Russia have seen a series of developments in recent days.

During an economic forum in Vladivostok, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed scepticism towards the possibility of negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, questioning the purpose of talks. Putin believes that discussions in Moscow would strengthen the Kremlin's negotiating position, given their perceived advantage on the front lines.

However, Zelensky has rejected Moscow as a potential venue for a meeting with Putin. In a statement on Thursday, Zelensky implied that such a move would indicate a lack of interest in a meeting, and he suggested instead that Putin could come to Kyiv for such a meeting. Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine is under daily attack, making travel to Moscow impossible for him at this time.

Despite Putin's denial of Zelensky's legitimacy in his public statements, at least seven countries have offered to host a summit for the ceasefire negotiations. These include Turkey and three Gulf states, as well as the United States (under former President Donald Trump), Switzerland (with French President Emmanuel Macron proposing Geneva as a venue), and the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Representatives from these countries have expressed readiness to host the meeting.

So far, no new countries have offered to host a summit for the ceasefire negotiations since the previous report. The Gulf states are considered neutral in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

It is important to note that the ceasefire negotiations are in relation to the Russian aggression against Ukraine, which has been ongoing for more than three and a half years. Zelensky has repeatedly called for a meeting with Putin to negotiate a ceasefire.

Putin, however, has expressed the possibility of Zelensky visiting Moscow for negotiations, if there is a prospect of a good outcome. The future of these negotiations remains uncertain, with both leaders maintaining their respective positions.