The Kremlin has brushed off Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent remarks expressing readiness for direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling them "empty words.

Amid increasing discussions about a potential diplomatic resolution to the nearly three-year Ukraine-Russia war, Zelensky stated that if sitting across from Putin at a negotiating table was the only way to achieve peace and prevent further bloodshed, they would pursue it.

However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Zelensky’s statement, insisting that it holds no real weight. His remarks come after Putin recently ruled out direct negotiations with Zelensky, stating that Moscow would engage in talks but not with the Ukrainian leader.

Additionally, a 2022 decree signed by Zelensky formally prohibits direct discussions with Putin, further complicating peace efforts. The Kremlin has also repeated its stance that Zelensky is not a legitimate leader, arguing that his presidential term expired last year.

With global attention on the ongoing conflict, the prospect of negotiations remains uncertain. Stay updated as the situation unfolds.