Zelensky Pushes for Putin Summit, Eyes Turkey or Gulf Hosts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said a one-on-one meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin remains “the most effective way forward” to end the war, repeating the call during Ukraine’s Independence Day celebrations on 24 August and in subsequent video addresses. Zelenskyy added that Turkey, Gulf nations and several European countries have been approached as potential venues and that Kyiv will hold contacts with them this week. He said Ukraine is prepared “from our side” to conclude the conflict once such a summit is arranged, but called on global leaders—particularly the United States—to help secure Moscow’s participation. The Kremlin has so far rebuffed the initiative. Russian President Putin has ruled out an immediate encounter, while Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said a meeting could occur only once a concrete agenda is agreed, something he claims is still lacking. Even as he pursues diplomacy, Zelenskyy convened his top military command on 26 August to review frontline conditions and the buildup of reserves. The army reported retaking four settlements in the Donetsk region over the weekend, though Russian forces continue to press near Kupiansk and elsewhere.