Zelenskiy sends open letter inviting Putin to peace talks to end war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy published an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposing a face-to-face meeting to negotiate an end to more than four years of war, while warning that Kyiv remains prepared to continue fighting if necessary on Thursday (June 4).

The open letter, which the Ukrainian president's office noted was also distributed to other nations including the United States, asserted that the majority of the Russian population has grown weary of inflation, fuel shortages, and Ukrainian missile and drone strikes, and is ready for peace, reports Reuters.

Zelenskiy noted that with Washington currently focused on the conflict in Iran, "it would be wrong to simply wait until the war in Europe returns to the center of its attention."

According to Zelenskiy, the path to peace must initiate directly at the frontline, describing it as "the line from which diplomacy must begin." He stated that Ukraine advocates for a complete ceasefire for the duration of the talks, calling it standard practice, and noted that the United States possesses the capability to monitor a ceasefire along the line where hostilities halt.

Proposing that a specific date be set for the meeting, Zelenskiy suggested neutral grounds that have traditionally hosted leaders to resolve conflicts, specifically naming Switzerland, Turkey, and countries within the Arab world.

"Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between us — and you. I am proposing a meeting," Zelenskiy wrote. "If you do not personally come to the conclusion that it is time to end this war, Ukraine will continue fighting for its existence."

He further suggested that a prolonged conflict could jeopardize Putin's own position, writing, "It is a fact of Russian history that you know well: when Russia grows tired, change comes."

In response, the Kremlin stated in Moscow that it had seen Zelenskiy's letter and that Putin would be briefed on its contents.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated on the social media platform X that the letter would be officially transmitted through diplomatic channels. Sybiha characterized the document as a serious and meaningful proposal to conclude the war, featuring clear, actionable steps alongside the invitation for a personal meeting.