Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said that Volodymyr Zelenskyy should call Vladimir Putin himself if he is interested in a meeting. According to Fico, this position was voiced by the Russian leader during their conversation in Moscow.
Fico voices Putin's position on the talks
Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico said that the initiative for possible contact between Ukraine and Russia should come from the Ukrainian president. According to him, during his visit to Moscow, the Russian president made it clear that Volodymyr Zelenskyy should take the first step and make the call himself if he is interested in meeting.
According to Fico, during a conversation in Moscow Vladimir Putin stressed that he was not going to take the initiative, and that the responsibility for starting a dialogue rests with the Ukrainian side. The Slovak prime minister said this, referring to his own negotiations with the Russian leader.
Reaction of the Ukrainian side
At the time of publication, the official position of the Office of the President of Ukraine on this statement had not been announced. At the same time, the issue of possible negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow remains a key issue on the international agenda. The Ukrainian leadership has repeatedly stressed the need for security guarantees and the restoration of territorial integrity as preconditions for any contacts.
Robert Fico's statement may affect the further development of diplomatic initiatives, as it shows the Russian side's position on the format of a possible dialogue. If the Ukrainian president decides to take advantage of this opportunity, it could mark a new stage in attempts to resolve the conflict.
The significance of the statement for the international community
The Slovak prime minister's remarks shed light on the current mood in Moscow regarding negotiations with Ukraine. It also sends a signal to other European leaders who are trying to promote a peaceful settlement. The international community is watching closely for any signs of the parties' readiness for dialogue.
Fico's statement can be used as an argument in diplomatic discussions about who should take the first step towards de-escalation. At the same time, it underlines the complexity of the situation, in which each side expects the initiative from the other.
Why it matters
Issues of negotiations between Ukraine and Russia remains one of the key issues for security in Europe. Further developments in the region will depend on whether progress is made in this area.
Fico's statement reflects the official position of the Russian authorities, which currently shows no willingness to take an independent initiative. This creates additional challenges for diplomatic efforts and sets new conditions for potential dialogue between the parties.
