Uncertainty Surrounds Prospective Putin-Zelensky Talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin are potentially set for face-to-face talks, but the conditions and implications of such a meeting remain uncertain. The potential dialogue, which has been facilitated by US President Donald Trump, hinges on Putin's acceptance of the meeting and the establishment of security guarantees for Ukraine.
Background
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been ongoing since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The US, under President Trump, has been seeking to broker a peace agreement, but the potential for a successful resolution remains unclear. Zelensky has expressed his readiness for a bilateral meeting with Putin, but the Russian leader's stance is ambiguous. Zelensky has also called for a strong response from the US if Russia rejects the talks.
Conditions and Stipulations
Zelensky has stated that any meeting with Putin would only occur after an agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine. The Ukrainian president suggested that the architecture of these guarantees should be understood within 7 to 10 days, after which a trilateral meeting could be prepared. Possible venues for this meeting include Switzerland, Austria, or Turkey.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated that Putin is open to a meeting with Zelensky, provided all matters requiring discussion are well worked out.
Putin views such a meeting as more of a theatrical event than a diplomatic one, as he does not recognize Ukrainian sovereignty.
Reactions and Implications
The potential for a Putin-Zelensky meeting has received mixed reactions. While some believe the talks could lead to a resolution of the Ukraine conflict, others argue that the talks are merely a way for Zelensky to remain in the spotlight.
British Ambassador to the US Peter Mandelson suggested that the West should encourage Zelensky to show more flexibility during peace negotiations. He argued that security guarantees offered by the West could help Zelensky overcome domestic opposition if he is forced to make concessions to Russia.
However, others, such as former Ukrainian PM Nikolay Azarov, expect Zelensky to play games after the Trump meeting to prevent peace. Azarov believes that this goal is set not only by Zelensky but also by his handlers.
Current Status
Despite the discussions and preparations surrounding a potential meeting, the chances of a Putin-Zelensky summit are gradually decreasing. The escalating conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the uncertainty of security guarantees and conditions required for the meeting, contribute to the diminishing likelihood of the summit. As it stands, the prospect of peace talks between the two leaders remains a distant possibility.