Russian dictator Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a third country. He named the signing of a final peace treaty as the primary condition for such a meeting. During a press conference, the Kremlin leader also accused Ukraine of sabotaging prisoner exchanges and threatened Armenia with an “Ukrainian scenario” due to its European integration efforts. Additionally, he stated that, in his view, “the situation in the Ukrainian conflict is nearing its conclusion.”
Vladimir Putin announced his willingness to meet on neutral territory while speaking to the media, according to Russian state-owned outlets. The dictator emphasized that such a meeting can only happen after reaching specific agreements.
“It is possible to meet in a third country, but only if final agreements are reached for a long-term historical perspective,” Putin stated.
Stall in prisoner exchange
The Russian leader effectively undermined the agreements regarding a large-scale “1000 for 1000” prisoner exchange. He claims that Ukraine is allegedly ignoring Russian proposals and US initiatives. Putin stated that Moscow submitted a list of 500 individuals on May 5, but the Ukrainian side supposedly “went off the radar.” This statement follows Donald Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire for May 9–11, which was intended to include the exchange.
Threats against Armenia
The dictator specifically criticized Armenia’s course toward closer ties with the EU. Putin urged Yerevan to hold a referendum on its foreign policy. He directly drew a parallel with the beginning of Russian aggression against Ukraine in 2014. According to him, Ukraine’s attempts to join the EU led to hostilities, hinting at a similar outcome for Armenia.
Search for negotiators
For dialogue between Russia and the European Union, Putin proposed former German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder. The Russian leader identified Mr. Schröder as the most suitable negotiator for the Kremlin. He added that he refuses to communicate with European politicians who have criticized Moscow’s actions during the full-scale war.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that Moscow’s May 9 parade lasted less than an hour, and no military equipment was displayed.
