In open letter to Putin, Zelensky proposes face-to-face talks to end war 

Kyiv (Web Desk): In an open letter, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for a face-to-face meeting between himself and Russian President Vladimir Putin in a renewed bid to end the war that has stretched beyond four years.

At the same time, he cautioned that Ukraine remains prepared to continue its resistance if a peaceful settlement cannot be achieved.

The open letter, released on Thursday and distributed to several governments, including the United States, stated that many Russians have grown increasingly frustrated with the consequences of the conflict, including Ukrainian drone and missile strikes, soaring prices, and shortages of fuel.

Zelensky argued that these pressures have created a stronger desire for peace among the Russian population.

He also noted that Washington's attention is currently directed toward tensions involving Iran, saying "it would be wrong to simply wait until the war in Europe returns to the center of its attention".

Zelensky said that any meaningful peace effort must begin on the battlefield itself, describing it as "the line from which diplomacy must begin". He reiterated Ukraine's support for "a full ceasefire for the duration of the negotiations. This is standard practice."

The Ukrainian president further stated that the United States "has the capability to monitor a ceasefire along the line where hostilities stop".

As part of his proposal, Zelensky called for a fixed date to be agreed upon for a personal meeting. He pointed to Switzerland, Turkiye and countries in the Arab world as possible venues, noting that they have "traditionally hosted leaders to resolve issues of war and peace".

Addressing Putin directly, Zelensky wrote: "Do not be afraid to take the path out of this war. That is the main thing that is required of you now."

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

Zelensky also suggested that an extended conflict could eventually affect 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 confirmed that it had received the letter and said Putin would be informed about its contents.