Putin says he sees no current reason to meet Ukraine's Zelenskiy
Vladimir Putin said he currently sees no reason to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The remark came as European leaders intensify diplomatic pressure to end the war. Front-line developments and energy security concerns are back in focus.
Photo: Slavcho Malezanov / PexelsInvesting.com Europe reported the Kremlin's confirmation of Russian President Vladimir Putin's statement that he currently sees no reason to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Putin said any leaders' summit would first require 'concrete preconditions' to be met. Kyiv described the comments as 'a deliberate attempt to stall'.
European Union capitals have stepped up diplomatic efforts in recent weeks to revive the peace process. Debris from a drone that fell in Romania has reignited threat perceptions along NATO's eastern flank. According to Investing.com, Germany and France will discuss a fresh air-defence package for Ukraine in the coming weeks.
In markets, Brent crude and natural gas futures edged higher after the remarks. Investors are watching for possible new sanctions on Russian grain and energy exports. The statement is expected to add fresh momentum to Europe's debate on defence spending.
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