New Delhi, June 19 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday (June 19) that he is willing to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky - but only at the "final phase" of any negotiations.

"So as not to sit there and divide things up endlessly, but to put an end to it," Putin told international journalists during a media briefing in St. Petersburg.

The comment came amid intensified Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities and growing global concerns that diplomatic efforts are losing momentum. However, Putin's broader tone remained defiant, casting doubt on the sincerity of any peace overtures.

Putin reiterated that Russian forces were focusing attacks on Ukrainian defense infrastructure.

"The strikes were carried out agai...