Kremlin Calls Zelensky's Statements on Negotiating with Putin 'Empty Words'

On Wednesday, the Kremlin described Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's proposal for direct negotiations with Vladimir Putin as 'empty words.' Zelensky stated in an interview with a television host that he is ready to meet with Putin if peace can be achieved through direct negotiations. However, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, emphasized that these remarks are not taken seriously. Putin had previously announced that Moscow is ready to negotiate with Ukraine but rejected direct talks with Zelensky. The Kremlin spokesperson also referred to a decree signed by Zelensky in 2022 that prohibited direct negotiations with Putin, adding that Russia does not recognize Zelensky as the legitimate president of Ukraine, as his five-year presidential term ended last year. Nevertheless, the Kremlin spokesperson reiterated that Moscow is still ready to negotiate, but Kyiv must take the first step and show its willingness. In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, published on YouTube on February 5, Zelensky warned against the reduction or lifting of Western sanctions on Russia and mentioned the idea of nuclear weapons as a guarantee for Ukraine's security. Regarding negotiations to end the war, he stated, 'If people believe we should resort to diplomatic solutions, and I believe we are ready for this, the talks should involve the participation of the U.S., Europe, Ukraine, and Russia.' When asked about his feelings about sitting face-to-face with Vladimir Putin, he said, 'If this is the only way to establish peace and avoid more deaths of Ukrainian people, I would undoubtedly accept it.' Zelensky added, 'I will not be kind to him (Putin). From my perspective, he is an enemy. Honestly, I think he considers me an enemy as well.' This interview coincides with actions by Donald Trump's administration aimed at finding a solution to end the war. A Trump representative stated that the U.S. seeks to establish elections in Ukraine after a ceasefire. Donald Trump has stated that he is willing to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine with Vladimir Putin. The Russian president has also expressed his readiness to talk with Trump about issues such as the Ukraine war and energy prices but has rejected direct negotiations with Volodymyr Zelensky. Keith Kellogg, Trump's special envoy for Russia and Ukraine, emphasized on February 5 that both sides must reconsider their terms and make concessions to reach an agreement. He added, 'Zelensky has indicated that he will soften his stance on Ukraine's territory. Putin also needs to soften his position.' In another part of the interview published on Tuesday, Zelensky stated that reducing sanctions on Russia would increase the risk of a second military invasion. He added that if Ukraine's NATO membership process takes years or decades, possessing nuclear weapons could provide sufficient security guarantees to deter Putin from attacking Ukraine again. Zelensky emphasized that for Kyiv, a roadmap for Ukraine's NATO membership is the best option for ending the war and ensuring Ukraine's security. He also noted that raising the issue of nuclear missiles is 'completely fair.' The Ukrainian president added, 'Will they give us enough missiles to stop Russia? I'm not sure, but I think it will help. Otherwise, what missiles can stop Russian nuclear missiles?' Ukraine has been unable to prevent the advance of the Russian army, and Zelensky admitted in this interview that it is likely Ukraine cannot reclaim parts of the occupied territories. He said, 'Unfortunately, the support and assistance from Ukraine's supporting countries are not enough to drive Putin out of all our territory.'