Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky only wants to talk directly about peace with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.
Speaking via video link at the World Economic Forum on Wednesday, Zelenski said he did not want to negotiate with intermediaries.
If Putin “sees the reality” then they could find a diplomatic solution to the conflict, according to the Ukrainian president. Then Moscow must first withdraw its troops to the front lines before the Russian invasion on 24 February.
“That would be the first step towards negotiations.” Zelensky eventually wants all Ukrainian territory back.
Peace negotiations started shortly after the start of the war, but have stalled for a long time. According to Russian news agencies, the last talks took place on April 22. Both sides blame each other for the lack of a breakthrough.
