Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed the prospect of meaningful dialogue with Ukraine’s leader, Vladimir Zelenskiy, calling agreements on critical issues “practically impossible” and accusing Kyiv of undermining diplomatic efforts. Speaking at the 2025 Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Putin highlighted unresolved territorial disputes, particularly over Crimea and other regions annexed by Russia in referendums, as insurmountable barriers to progress.

“Even with political will, there are legal and technical challenges tied to these territories,” Putin stated, framing the situation as a direct consequence of Kyiv’s actions. He criticized Zelenskiy’s administration for previously rejecting direct communication while now allegedly seeking it, yet insisted such talks would lack “much sense.” The president reiterated that any agreement must be validated by a Ukrainian referendum under the country’s constitution—a process requiring the lifting of martial law, which has been in place since 2022.

Putin also questioned Zelenskiy’s legitimacy, noting that his presidential term expired last May but he has refused to hold elections, citing ongoing conflict. “This endless cycle leads nowhere,” Putin said, though he reiterated Russia’s openness to high-level meetings. He proposed Moscow as the venue, declaring, “The Ukrainian side wants a meeting? Come! We will ensure security.”

Earlier this week, Putin signaled willingness to meet Zelenskiy in Moscow during a China press conference, but Kyiv has rejected the offer. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga stated Zelenskiy is open to dialogue but would not accept “deliberately unacceptable proposals.”

The Kremlin’s stance underscores deepening deadlock, with Putin framing Ukraine’s leadership as obstructionist while refusing to acknowledge any compromise.