Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a potential meeting in Moscow, even as Russian forces continue to launch attacks across Ukraine.
The offer was made during Putin’s recent trip to China, where he held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Speaking through translated remarks released from Beijing, Putin stated, “If Zelenskyy is ready for a meeting, let him come to Moscow.”
The timing of this proposal, which coincides with intensified military aggression by Russia in Ukrainian territories, raises significant questions about its sincerity and strategic purpose.
Security Risks Make Moscow Meeting Unlikely
Despite the public invitation, there is little expectation that Zelenskyy would accept such a meeting on Russian soil.
The Ukrainian president’s office has not issued a formal response, nor has the White House commented on the matter. Given the ongoing war and threats against Zelenskyy personally, the proposal is widely viewed as unrealistic.
Former CIA Moscow Station Chief Dan Hoffman emphasized the severe security implications, telling Fox News Digital, “There’s no way that Zelenskyy should be traveling to Moscow.”
Zelenskyy remains a prime target in Putin’s campaign, with Russia having repeatedly signaled an intent to remove him from power in Kyiv.
Past Offers to Meet on Neutral Ground Rejected
Zelenskyy has previously called for direct negotiations with Putin, proposing neutral venues such as Turkey for any potential summit. However, the Kremlin has consistently declined those invitations.
The refusal to meet outside of Russian territory casts doubt on the seriousness of Putin’s latest outreach.
According to Hoffman, the invitation appears to be more about optics than diplomacy.
“Putin invaded Ukraine,” Hoffman said.
“He is doing this to make it appear as if he will negotiate in good faith and try and drive a wedge between Zelenskyy and the United States, as well as Zelenskyy and Europe.”
