Putin is ready for a meeting with Zelensky in Beijing, an important change in tone

03.09.2025 | War in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated from Beijing that he is ready for a meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky, which is a significant change in the Kremlin's position.

Снимка от Premier.gov.ru, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Putin: I'm Ready for a Meeting with Zelenskyy

Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, said today from Beijing that he is ready to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The statement was made during his visit to the Chinese capital, where he participated in key international talks aimed at strengthening cooperation between Moscow and Beijing.

Putin's statement comes at a time of heightened tension and ongoing conflict in the region. Until now, the Kremlin has repeatedly rejected direct talks with Kyiv, and the official Russian position is that any talks must be held under certain, pre-established conditions.

The statement of readiness for a meeting with Zelenskyy represents a significant change in the Russian president's tone, although it remains unclear what the specific conditions for such a meeting would be.

Western analysts have long called for a direct dialogue between the two leaders as a potential path to de-escalate the situation and seek a peaceful resolution. There are concerns, however, that such an offer could also be a strategic move aimed at portraying Moscow as a party open to diplomacy, without a real readiness for compromise.

The topic of a potential summit will be a major point of discussion on the international stage.