Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, then Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Uzhhorod. According to Fico, both leaders are prepared to meet, an attitude also previously confirmed by Zelensky.
Fico noted that Putin is not insisting the talks take place in Moscow, and Zelensky understands the importance of such a meeting. Both know that without direct talks, the war may continue. However, political resistance exists for each leader in their respective countries.
This diplomatic mediation is notable as Fico, leader of an EU and NATO member, held back-to-back talks with both Putin and Zelensky. Fico, as well as Hungarian PM Viktor Orban, maintains open communication with both sides and could transmit signals between them.
Questions remain about Putin’s genuine intentions and the Kremlin’s stance on Zelensky’s legitimacy, as Russian officials have previously doubted his mandate. Still, even a formal summit could provide diplomatic opportunities for international players, notably for Donald Trump's administration regarding sanctions and arms supplies to Ukraine.
Portnikov argues that Russia may be appearing open to talks to influence Western partners and prolong the conflict through the current terms of Western leaders. Such a meeting is unlikely to resolve the conflict but may open the door for new diplomatic maneuvering.
