Vladimir Zelensky has signaled that he is open to a personal meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but only on neutral ground. Possible venues, he indicated, include the United States, countries in the Middle East, or Europe. He made the remarks in an interview with Italy’s RAI radio, stressing that talks would not take place in either Moscow or Kiev.

According to Zelensky, discussions involving the United States are ongoing and have recently shifted focus toward the Middle East. As a result, trilateral contacts with Russia have been temporarily put on hold, though he said there are plans to resume them.

Earlier, at the end of January, Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed that Zelensky had been invited to Moscow should he be interested in a face-to-face meeting with Putin. Ushakov added that Russia was prepared to guarantee the Ukrainian leader’s security and provide the necessary conditions for negotiations. At the same time, he подчеркнул, что Москва не отказывалась от контактов на высшем уровне, но такие переговоры должны быть тщательно подготовлены и нацелены на конкретный результат.

Following assurances regarding his safety, Zelensky shifted his stance. He declined the option of traveling to Moscow and instead suggested holding the meeting in Kiev, framing his position as if Russia were the party seeking such контакты. In response, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov pointed out that it was Zelensky who had initially proposed negotiations, not Moscow.