Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy refused Vladimir Putin’s invitation to meet in Moscow, calling it unrealistic. Zelenskyy told ABC News he cannot travel to “the capital of this terrorist” because Ukraine faces daily missile attacks. He insisted that Putin should come to Kyiv instead.
U.S. Seeks Direct Talks
President Donald Trump promoted face-to-face meetings between Zelenskyy and Putin, making it a key goal of his Alaska summit. Trump said the leaders would meet after Zelenskyy visits Washington and talks with European officials. Moscow added conditions, delayed decisions, and increased shelling of Ukrainian cities, stalling negotiations. Putin declared readiness to meet but only in Moscow. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the invitation aimed “to talk, not to capitulate.” Speaking in Paris, Zelenskyy said inviting him to Moscow shows Russia does not genuinely want negotiations, but even offering a personal meeting counts as progress. Trump told CBS News talks will happen, without giving a timeline.
Zelenskyy Condemns Russian Attacks
Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched over 1,300 drones, nearly 900 guided bombs, and 50 missiles during the first five days of September. Strikes hit 14 Ukrainian regions. Zelenskyy accused Russia of prolonging the war and turning diplomacy “into a blatant farce.” He called on international partners to strengthen sanctions, supply more weapons, and restrict Russian oil and gas trade.
