Zelensky "Proposed Talks with Putin in Jerusalem... Concrete Negotiations with Russia Begin"

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed holding a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Jerusalem, Israel. He also revealed that discussions on specific issues between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations have begun. As the Russian military's offensive on major Ukrainian cities intensifies, attention is focused on the possibility of a negotiation settlement between the two countries.

According to foreign media including the Associated Press on the 12th (local time), President Zelensky said at a press conference that "We welcome Israel's mediation efforts to promote negotiations with Russia" and "I proposed to Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett to hold a summit between Ukraine and Russia in Jerusalem."

He also emphasized that talks between the delegations of the two countries are ongoing. President Zelensky said, "The Ukrainian and Russian negotiation teams have started discussing specific issues rather than exchanging ultimatums."

Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Kremlin, the Russian presidential office, also stated, "After three face-to-face negotiations, dialogue between Russia and Ukraine continues via video connection," adding, "Vladimir Medinsky, presidential aide and head of the Russian delegation in face-to-face talks with Ukraine, has continued to lead the negotiations."

Previously, Israel, known for its Jewish-Ukrainian population, had expressed support for President Zelensky and Ukraine. As a close ally of the United States, Israel condemned Russia's invasion, showed solidarity with the Ukrainian government, and provided humanitarian aid, but stated it would maintain communication with Russia to help ease the crisis.

However, President Zelensky emphasized that the damage is increasing as the Russian military's offensive continues. He stated, "About 1,300 Ukrainian soldiers have lost their lives since Russia's invasion. However, the Russian military has also suffered significant losses." While Ukraine has previously announced civilian casualties since the invasion, this is the first time it has disclosed figures related to military personnel losses.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.