Vladimir Putin Open to Talks with Zelensky After Expert-Level Preparations, Says Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but only after expert-level discussions are completed, the Kremlin announced on Sunday.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made the statement while speaking to local media. He said, “Putin is ready to meet with Zelensky after expert-level preparations.” However, he confirmed that these preparations are not yet finished.

This follows calls from President Zelensky urging direct talks between both leaders, rather than keeping discussions limited to technical teams.

Possible U.S. Role in Talks

Peskov also mentioned that Russia is open to dialogue with Steve Witkoff, the special envoy of former U.S. President Donald Trump. According to Radio Liberty, Peskov said that Moscow is “always happy” to engage with Trump’s representative.

A meeting between Witkoff and Russian officials may take place on August 6 or 7. Trump had earlier hinted that his envoy might travel to Moscow this week.

Background

Relations between Russia and Ukraine have remained tense since the ongoing conflict began. While indirect talks have been held through mediators, both sides have struggled to agree on conditions for direct, high-level dialogue.

President Zelensky has repeatedly asked the Kremlin to speed up the process and move to a more hands-on diplomatic approach.