Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy published an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, proposing a direct meeting to end more than four years of war. The letter, released by the president's office, was also sent to other countries, including the United States.
Zelenskyy's Call for Peace
In his letter, Zelenskyy stated that the majority of Russians have grown tired of Ukrainian missile and drone attacks, inflation, and fuel shortages, and are ready for peace. He emphasized that with the United States focused on the conflict in Iran, it would be wrong to simply wait until the war in Europe returns to the center of its attention.
The path to peace, Zelenskyy argued, must start at the frontline, which he described as the line from which diplomacy must begin. Ukraine stands for a full ceasefire for the duration of the negotiations, which he called standard practice. He also noted that the United States has the capability to monitor a ceasefire along the line where hostilities stop.
Proposed Meeting and International Support
Zelenskyy proposed setting a clear date for a meeting and mentioned that several countries have traditionally hosted leaders to resolve issues of war and peace, citing Switzerland, Turkey, and the countries of the Arab world. He urged Putin not to be afraid to take the path out of the war.
“Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between us — and you. I am proposing a meeting... If you do not personally come to the conclusion that it is time to end this war, Ukraine will continue fighting for its existence,” Zelenskyy wrote. He also suggested that continued war could threaten Putin’s personal position, noting that when Russia grows tired, change comes.
Kremlin's Response
In Moscow, the Kremlin said it had seen Zelenskyy’s letter and that Putin would be briefed on it. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, writing on X, said the letter would also be sent officially through diplomatic channels. Sybiha described the letter as a serious and meaningful proposal to end the war, with clear, doable steps and an invitation for a personal meeting. “We expect a meaningful response to this proposal. It’s time to end this war. It’s time to choose peace,” he added.
