Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he proposed meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the G7 summit to discuss halting the war. This was reported by the Reuters news agency.
According to Zelenskyy, the Kyiv side indicated its readiness for negotiations. U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron may also participate in the meeting.
"We have announced our readiness to meet with Putin within the framework of the G7 summit. Trump and Macron will also be there. Such a format, involving Europe and the United States, would be a good opportunity for negotiations," Zelenskyy said during a meeting with journalists.
According to Ukrainian officials, the proposal has been conveyed to the U.S. and French sides, and has also been sent to Russian representatives. However, no official response has been received from Moscow so far.
Zelenskyy assessed Russia's silence on this matter as Moscow's unwillingness to negotiate. He had previously proposed a face-to-face meeting with Putin. The Russian President, however, said he sees no need for such dialogue.
The Ukrainian leader's statement came after the latest Russian army attacks on the cities of Kyiv and Kharkiv. According to preliminary data, at least 10 people were killed as a result of the strikes.
Zelenskyy emphasized that one of his main goals at the G7 summit is to discuss strengthening Ukraine's air defense systems. He also stated that he would consider additional measures with Western states aimed at urging Russia to stop the war.
