The initiative to write an open letter to Russian leader Vladimir Putin arose in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's mind shortly before the start of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and a series of his meetings with European partners. This was reported by a source in the Ukrainian president's team to RBC-Ukraine.

"The president came up with this idea before the start of the forum in St. Petersburg and on the eve of some of his meetings in Europe," the publication's interlocutor said.

Strategic Calculation

Zelenskyy's team understands that the Kremlin's reaction to the proposal for negotiations may be formal or even dismissive. However, the very fact of publishing the letter is significant not only for Moscow but also for the domestic audience in Russia, as well as for Western partners.

"Let him speak. Putin will see one thing there, Russians — another, partners — a third. It is important that the content of the letter goes to Russia, primarily to those groups there that have influence," the source emphasized.

The Essence of the Proposal

On the evening of June 4, an open appeal from Zelenskyy to Putin was published on the official website of the Office of the President of Ukraine. In it, the Ukrainian leader proposes to hold a meeting in a third country with the aim of achieving a long-term peace.

Key conditions voiced in the letter:

  • Ukraine is ready to suspend hostilities during the negotiations;
  • An exchange of prisoners on an "all for all" formula is proposed — as an important step towards ending the war.

Kremlin's Reaction

The Kremlin confirmed that the letter has already been received, however, they noted that it has not yet been shown to Vladimir Putin. At the same time, the Russian President's Administration answered the question about the possible place of the meeting — but details are not yet disclosed.

The Ukrainian side plans to transfer the text of the letter through official diplomatic channels to ensure its legitimacy and documentary registration.

Why exactly now?

The timing of the publication coincided with key international events — the SPIEF in St. Petersburg and a series of Zelenskyy's meetings in Europe. This allows Ukraine to use diplomatic pressure and draw the attention of the international community to the idea of peace negotiations, even if Russia is not ready for constructive dialogue.

As analysts note, the letter is not just a gesture, but part of a broader strategy: to show the world Ukraine's readiness for peace, while simultaneously creating an information field within Russia, where there may be an interest in ending the conflict.