Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky published an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposing face-to-face negotiations and a comprehensive ceasefire. In the letter, released on Thursday, Zelensky stated, "Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between us — and you. I am proposing a meeting." He emphasized the need to determine the future for upcoming generations of Ukrainians and Russians, warning that if Putin does not agree to end the war, Ukraine will continue to fight for its existence. Zelensky suggested that any meeting should take place in a third-party country.
Zelensky's letter highlighted Ukraine's enhanced capabilities to target Russian supply lines and conduct long-range strikes, noting that Ukrainian drones recently hit infrastructure in St. Petersburg. He remarked that the majority of Ukrainians view these strikes positively. Concurrently, Russian forces have threatened to escalate attacks on Kyiv, which is distant from the front lines.
Zelensky also commented on the shifting focus of U.S. attention towards Iran, suggesting it would be unwise to wait for the war in Europe to regain prominence in U.S. foreign policy. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed the conflict during congressional hearings, stating that neither side has made necessary concessions for peace and that the war has no military solution. He noted the increased risk of escalation due to Ukraine's long-range capabilities, which could lead to a more dangerous situation than two years ago. Rubio expressed a desire for a negotiated settlement but acknowledged the current lack of willingness from either side to compromise.
