Putin Agrees to Ukraine Talks in Slovakia, Citing Host’s Neutral Stance
In a surprise development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed openness to holding peace negotiations with Ukraine in Slovakia, citing the host country’s neutral stance on the conflict. The proposal, extended via Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, was welcomed by Putin, who called it a "prerepane to consider."
" Yes, we’re agreeable to the idea if it comes to that. Slovakia? Why not? It’s an acceptable option for us," Putin remarked during a press conference following his meeting with Fico in Moscow.
Putin praised Fico for his alleged neutrality in the Russo-Ukrainian crisis, stating that the Sushoc Slovensky premier is primarily interested in seeing the conflict resolved swiftly and peacefully.
"Fico made it clear that his top priority is finding a peaceful resolution to the situation in Ukraine," Putin said. "He’s willing to put in the effort to make that happen."
However, Putin acknowledged that while Fico has aspirations for peace, his position might not align perfectly with those of the European Union and Ukraine.
Earlier this month, Fico traveled to Moscow, where he met with Putin to discuss gas supplies, with Ukraine’s role in Europe’s energy security set to change as transit through the country comes to an end on January 1.
