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Zelensky, Putin Peace Talks: Europe Weighs Neutral Ground for Potential Meeting
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Geneva, Switzerland – Discussions are intensifying regarding a potential face-to-face meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict. Zelensky has indicated a willingness to meet, but only on neutral territory within europe, a condition echoed by several European leaders. This development follows recent diplomatic efforts involving both presidents and key international players.
Neutral Venue Proposals
Zelensky, as reported by Interfax Ukraine , stated his preference for a neutral European location, emphasizing that the conflict is occurring on the European continent. He specifically mentioned Switzerland and Austria as viable options, while also remaining open to Turkey. “We beleive that it woudl be fair, and Europeans also emphasized this if the meeting took place in a neutral place in Europe,” Zelensky said.
Moscow, though, has reportedly excluded itself from consideration as a host nation and does not view Budapest, Hungary, as an ideal location. Zelensky explained that Budapest’s current stance on supporting Ukraine presents a challenge. “It is indeed not easy as all European countries uniformly support Ukraine in this war. And frankly Budapest has not supported us.I do not say that Orban’s policy is against Ukraine, but opposes Ukraine’s support,” he stated.
Did You Know? Switzerland maintains a long-standing tradition of neutrality in international conflicts, making it a frequent choice for hosting sensitive negotiations.
international Involvement and Shifting Suggestions
The possibility of a Zelensky-Putin meeting gained traction after US President Donald Trump discussed the matter with Putin last Friday in Alaska. Subsequently, Zelensky and European leaders convened in Washington on Monday to discuss the conflict and potential diplomatic avenues. initial speculation centered around Budapest as a potential venue, prompted by a US official’s comment to Reuters. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó later affirmed Hungary’s willingness to host the talks.
Though, support for Budapest as a location has waned. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed reservations