Zelensky insists on dialogue with Putin to end the conflict in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced his intention to make every effort to meet with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, amid affirmations from American officials on the necessity of direct talks between the two sides to end the ongoing conflict.

Zelensky emphasized in a press conference held in Kyiv that negotiations for a ceasefire must be conducted directly with Putin, as he holds the ultimate authority to implement any agreement.

In light of these developments, a Ukrainian presidential advisor mentioned that Zelensky will not meet with any other member of the Russian delegation, but the meeting will be limited to Putin only, in talks scheduled to take place in Istanbul next Thursday.

Zelensky also indicated that US President Donald Trump has not confirmed his participation in these talks yet, but expressed a desire to be present to support the dialogue process.

The Ukrainian President expects the United States and the European Union to impose severe sanctions on Russia if the latter refuses to engage in direct talks in Istanbul.

At the same time, the special envoy of the American President, Steve Whitlock, hinted that a peaceful settlement cannot be reached without Russia's active participation in the negotiations.

The American envoy suggested that diplomatic efforts are underway with all parties, affirming that reaching a solution cannot happen without the Russian President's official signature on any agreement.

International welcome has been extended to the proposal of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine amidst the ongoing suffering due to the war, which has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Ukrainians and forced millions to flee their homes.