Vladimir Zelensky has again raised the prospect of direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, this time claiming that he proposed a meeting in France on the sidelines of the G7 summit, which has already begun.

Speaking at the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra, Zelensky said the United States had allegedly been ready to invite Putin to negotiations during the summit. According to him, Kiev viewed the G7 venue as a convenient setting for such a discussion because US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron were expected to attend.

Zelensky described the format as a strong opportunity for all sides to meet together, Reuters reported.

From the outset, however, Putin’s trip to such a meeting with Zelensky appeared unlikely. Moscow has not confirmed receiving any official request. Full-fledged official relations between Russia and Ukraine are also absent.

France has not confirmed any invitation to the Russian president either. Visits at this level are usually coordinated in advance, which also casts doubt on Kiev’s version of events.