Moscow/Beijing, September 3 – Russian President Vladimir Putin has said he is open to meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Moscow, but only under certain political conditions. The remarks, made during his visit to China, came as U.S. President Donald Trump continues efforts to mediate between the two leaders in an attempt to bring the ongoing conflict closer to a negotiated settlement.
Putin’s Conditional Offer
Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, Putin declared that Moscow is prepared to host a meeting with Zelenskyy, but only if it is “carefully prepared and effective.” The Russian leader stressed that Ukraine must first lift martial law, hold new elections, and conduct a referendum regarding disputed territories before any serious peace talks could begin.
“These are not just formalities. They are necessary steps for genuine dialogue,” Putin stated. “If President Zelenskyy wishes to come to Moscow, we will meet him. But such a meeting must be productive, not symbolic.”
Putin added that while Russia is ready to negotiate, he believes the war could end quickly if “common sense prevails.” Otherwise, he warned, the conflict would continue “until its objectives are achieved.”
Trump’s Mediation Push
Putin’s comments came just days after Donald Trump revealed that he had been in contact with both leaders, suggesting the possibility of a tripartite meeting. The former U.S. president, who returned to office earlier this year, has expressed confidence that peace is achievable, but has also cautioned that the process may take time.
“I think we’ll get them together. Maybe they have to fight a little longer first,” Trump said in a recent statement. “But I believe it will happen.”
Analysts note that Trump’s role has been viewed with both hope and skepticism. While Washington officially supports peace talks, U.S. officials remain cautious, saying Moscow’s demands may undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Zelenskyy and Europe Respond
In response to Putin’s remarks, President Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine will not negotiate on Russia’s terms. Speaking at a European Union–Nordic summit, he emphasized that any talks must respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and include credible security guarantees.
“Russia cannot attack us for years and then suddenly invite us to talks in Moscow,” Zelenskyy said. “We will engage in diplomacy, but only when it is genuine and not dictated by aggression.”
European leaders, including those from Denmark and Poland, echoed Zelenskyy’s concerns. They highlighted the need for a strong post-war security framework to protect Ukraine from future threats.
Escalation on the Battlefield
Despite diplomatic signals, fighting on the ground shows no signs of slowing. Over the past week, Russia launched hundreds of drones and missiles targeting Ukrainian infrastructure across southern, central, and western regions. The strikes caused significant damage to energy facilities and civilian areas, forcing thousands to seek shelter.
Ukraine’s military has responded with counterattacks, but officials warn that their resources are being stretched thin. The country continues to appeal for more air defense systems and financial aid from Western allies.
The ongoing violence underscores the fragile nature of the diplomatic opening. Even as Putin signals willingness to host Zelenskyy, Russia’s military strategy appears to be intensifying.
Analysts See Mixed Motives
Experts say Putin’s invitation may be more about political signaling than a genuine peace offering. By setting conditions such as lifting martial law and holding elections, Moscow places hurdles that Kyiv is unlikely to accept in the near term.
“This is less about negotiating peace and more about shaping the narrative,” said a European diplomat. “Putin wants to appear open to dialogue, but his terms clearly favor Russia’s long-term interests.”
Meanwhile, Trump’s involvement adds another layer of complexity. While his mediation attempt could bring both sides to the table, critics argue that Washington risks appearing too eager to broker a deal at any cost.
What Comes Next?
For now, the prospect of a Putin–Zelenskyy meeting in Moscow remains uncertain. Ukrainian officials have ruled out accepting Russian conditions, while the Kremlin insists its demands are non-negotiable. Trump continues to push for dialogue, but neither side has committed to an immediate summit.
Observers say the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the diplomatic overture leads to meaningful progress or remains a symbolic gesture. With fighting intensifying and civilian casualties rising, the stakes for Ukraine, Russia, and the global community remain high.
Key Takeaways
- Putin invites Zelenskyy to Moscow but sets strict preconditions.
- Trump pushes for mediation, suggesting talks could take place soon.
- Zelenskyy rejects Russia’s terms, calling them unacceptable.
- Fighting continues, with Russian strikes intensifying across Ukraine.
- Analysts warn the invitation may be more about optics than real negotiation.
In summary, Putin’s offer marks a notable diplomatic signal but falls far short of a breakthrough. With Trump’s mediation bid in the background and Europe pressing for stability, the war remains at a critical juncture. Whether talks in Moscow ever materialize—or whether the battlefield continues to dictate the outcome—will shape the next chapter of this ongoing crisis.