St. Petersburg, June 20 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed doubts about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's authority to sign a treaty, while indicating he was open to meeting him for peace talks, RT reported.

"Signature must come from legitimate authorities," the Russian President said on Wednesday.

Zelensky has repeatedly called for a meeting with Putin, stating that he alone can resolve pressing bilateral issues, including disputes over territory. However, speaking to international media at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin raised concerns over the Ukrainian leader's legitimacy.

RT quoted Putin as saying, "If the Ukrainian state entrusts someone to negotiate on its behalf, suit yourself, let ...