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Zelensky says Putin fears strong leaders and is avoiding peace talks after the Russian president dismissed direct negotiations. Trump pressures both sides for a deal, but Kyiv warns against exclusion.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin was “afraid” of negotiations on ending the Ukraine war, after the Russian president ruled out direct talks with his Ukrainian counterpart.
“Today, Putin once again confirmed that he is afraid of negotiations, afraid of strong leaders, and does everything possible to prolong the war,” Zelensky posted on X.