Putin Says Russia and Ukraine Must Negotiate Directly for Peace

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that a diplomatic resolution to the war in Ukraine remains possible, emphasizing that direct agreement between Moscow and Kyiv is paramount, with foreign nations serving a supporting role. The remarks were made on September 3 during the Eastern Economic Forum, as reported by DW.

"First and foremost, Russia and Ukraine must reach an agreement between themselves, while other countries stand ready to support and assist. This is the right approach," Putin noted, adding that communication channels between special services remain active, though their influence on a ultimate peace deal remains uncertain. He also cited recent Ukrainian attacks on Black Sea cargo ships and rhetoric regarding Russian airspace safety as key obstacles complicating negotiations.

On the same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the potential resumption of talks, announcing that representatives of the U.S. President are scheduled to visit both Kyiv and Moscow to discuss peace terms. Zelenskyy confirmed ongoing contact with the U.S. leadership, following discussions with senior American envoys.

The prospect of renewed diplomatic engagement gained momentum following an unannounced late-August trip to Moscow by U.S. CIA Director John Ratcliffe. While reports suggested a potential trilateral summit between the U.S., Russian, and Ukrainian leaders was raised during those talks, President Donald Trump clarified that such a meeting would only take place once all parties are genuinely ready to finalize a peace agreement.