Zelensky: proposal for direct talks with Putin “remains on the table”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that all proposals and options for ending the war have already been conveyed to the Russian side, and that his initiative for a personal meeting with Vladimir Putin remains relevant.

He announced this in an evening video address.

“Russians are not stopping the war, even though all proposals on this matter — real formats, possibilities — all of this has long been on their table, and Putin must make a choice in favor of diplomacy and a normal peace. Our proposal for a meeting — a proposal to Putin — for a direct and honest conversation in a Ukraine–Russia format with the support of partners — our proposal remains on the table,” Zelensky said.

In addition to his diplomatic statements, the president warned Ukrainians of a heightened air threat and urged them to pay close attention to air raid alerts.

“Tonight and in the near future, it is especially important to pay close attention to air raid alerts. Please take care of yourselves,” Zelensky added.

According to him, Russian forces attacked Kharkiv, Sumy, and Dnipropetrovsk regions with Shaheds from the morning. More than 200 drones were recorded throughout the day. Strikes were recorded in Zaporizhzhia region and there are fatalities.