The Kremlin rejected a meeting between Putin and Zelensky: what ISW analysts explain

The Kremlin refuses to meet with Ukrainian President Zelensky - such a message is given to us by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). Putin does not want to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart and rejects any responsibility for it.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says that Putin is 'not ready at all' for a meeting with Zelensky. This seems to be an official confirmation of the refusal.

Experts say that in Moscow there is concern that such a meeting could undermine the justification for Russia's military intervention in Ukraine.

The Kremlin's fear before the meeting

The opposition publication Verstka reports that the Kremlin fears the reputational consequences of a meeting with Zelensky. A political technologist from the Russian administration believes that Putin and his advisors are afraid of negative consequences. Even if Kremlin officials declare their readiness for negotiations, it is likely just a polite refusal.

Analysts note that it is difficult for the Kremlin to figure out how to align its interests with its obligations to the people and not provoke new sanctions from the US that could threaten the continuation of the war.

The message that the Kremlin rejects a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky indicates certain tensions between Russia and Ukraine. It also points to a certain fear within the Kremlin regarding the possible consequences of such a meeting, which could damage its reputation and internal justifications for military activities in Ukraine.