Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected Vladimir Putin’s invitation to meet in Moscow, calling it unrealistic. He told ABC News he could not travel under daily missile strikes. Zelenskyy insisted that Putin should come to Kyiv instead.
Trump Pushes Direct Talks
U.S. President Donald Trump encouraged face-to-face meetings between Zelenskyy and Putin. He said talks would occur after Zelenskyy visits Washington and meets European leaders. Moscow added conditions and increased shelling, delaying any agreement. Putin claimed readiness to meet in Moscow, while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the invitation was “to talk, not to capitulate.” Zelenskyy responded that Moscow’s invitation showed it wanted no genuine meeting, calling it a minimal achievement. Trump told CBS News that discussions would happen, without giving a timeline.
Zelenskyy Condemns Russian Attacks
Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched over 1,300 drones, almost 900 guided bombs, and roughly 50 missiles in the first five days of September. Strikes struck 14 Ukrainian regions, showing Russia’s intent to prolong the war. Zelenskyy accused Moscow of turning diplomacy “into a blatant farce.” He urged Ukraine’s partners to increase sanctions, provide more weapons, and restrict Russian oil and gas trade.
