In an open letter released ahead of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Zelensky reflected on how attitudes toward Putin have changed in Ukraine since the Russian leader first came to power more than two decades ago. He argued that Russia’s invasion has fundamentally altered public opinion and underscored Ukraine’s determination to continue resisting Moscow’s military campaign.
Referring to recent Ukrainian drone operations that reached targets near St. Petersburg, more than 1,000 kilometers from Ukrainian-controlled territory, Zelensky highlighted Kyiv’s growing long-range capabilities.
“The overwhelming majority of Ukrainians view it positively that our long-range drones paid a visit to the opening of your forum in St. Petersburg, covering a distance of more than 1,000 kilometers,” Zelensky wrote. “As you know very well, that distance is not the limit of our capabilities.”
The letter also outlined a diplomatic proposal. Zelensky called for a face-to-face meeting with Putin in a neutral third country, suggesting that direct dialogue could help break the deadlock in efforts to end the war. He further proposed an “all-for-all” prisoner exchange, under which both sides would release all captured prisoners of war.
Zelensky acknowledged that the broader international landscape is shifting, noting that escalating tensions between Israel and Iran have increasingly drawn the attention of the United States and other global powers. He suggested that Ukraine cannot afford to wait for major diplomatic initiatives from its allies and must continue pursuing its own path toward a settlement.
The comments came as Russia seeks to project economic confidence at the St. Petersburg forum. However, repeated Ukrainian long-range drone attacks on energy and industrial infrastructure have challenged that image, contributing to fuel supply disruptions in some regions and adding pressure to an economy already affected by war-related spending and international sanctions.
The exchange underscores the contrast between ongoing military confrontation and renewed calls for diplomacy, as both sides remain far apart on the conditions for ending Europe’s largest conflict since World War II.
