Vladimir Zelensky published an open address to Vladimir Putin, proposing a cessation of hostilities and a move to the negotiating table. The document appeared against the backdrop of statements by the Ukrainian leader that Kyiv is ready for direct contacts with Moscow, without waiting for the conclusion of other global conflicts currently occupying the US.
Kyiv's Proposal: "Stand Where We Stand"
In the text of the letter, Zelensky states that Russia will not be able to capture the Donbas this year. The main message of the document is a call to end the war. The Ukrainian leader proposed declaring a ceasefire during negotiations and halting troops at the current line of demarcation, using the formulation "stand where we stand".
In addition to the direct address to the Russian leader, the letter has other goals. As explained by presidential advisor Dmytro Litvin, the document is addressed not only to Putin but also to Ukraine's partners, particularly the US. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga confirmed that the text would be transmitted through all diplomatic channels. Zelensky's team emphasized that the content of the message is also directed at influential groups within Russia.
Kremlin's Reaction and Putin's Position
Vladimir Putin himself has not yet given a public assessment of the letter. Presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov stated that he had familiarized himself with the text but noted that the head of state would be informed of it later. Peskov also reiterated the Kremlin's standard position: if Zelensky is truly interested in negotiations, he must come to Moscow personally.
Before the appearance of Zelensky's letter, Putin had already made a number of statements about the course of the war. He varied topics from threats to use new types of weapons against residential areas to readiness for "compromises". The Russian leader again mentioned the "spirit of Anchorage" and did not rule out plans for the Donbas.
Donald Trump's Comment
The open letter also provoked a reaction in Washington. Donald Trump, commenting on the situation, expressed satisfaction that the parties were discussing the possibility of a meeting. He called it a "wonderful" step and noted that the US had made significant efforts to create conditions for dialogue.
The American leader characterized both Russia and Ukraine as "wonderful countries" and their leaders as "very good people". Trump also reiterated his claims that 25,000 people die monthly in the course of the conflict and expressed confidence that the parties would reach compromises.
Separately, Trump emphasized the role of American support, stating that without US help, Ukraine "would not have lasted even one or two days".