Putin open to talks, Zelensky demands unconditional ceasefire

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Sunday, August 24th, 2025

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Kyiv/Moscow, August 24, 2025 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his call for an unconditional ceasefire to pave the way for negotiations with Russia, stressing that continued hostilities only deepen the humanitarian crisis and prolong the conflict. European allies have echoed his demand, urging an immediate halt in fighting to create conditions for peace talks.
Zelensky accused Moscow of “doing everything it can” to block a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying Ukraine remains committed to dialogue if Russia agrees to cease military operations without preconditions. “The world cannot allow further escalation. A complete and unconditional ceasefire is the first step,” Zelensky told reporters in Kyiv.
In response, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Putin is willing to meet Zelensky “once the agenda for the summit is ready,” but claimed that such preparations have stalled. “The agenda is not ready at all because Zelensky says ‘no’ to everything,” Lavrov stated, accusing Kyiv of rejecting multiple proposals for talks.
The exchange underscores persistent diplomatic deadlock despite mounting international pressure to end a war that has devastated Ukraine and strained global security. Western nations continue to press both sides for a framework that could lead to formal negotiations, though differences over conditions remain a major obstacle.