Bangladesh, July 20 -- Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has reiterated his call for a direct, face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, arguing that only such high-level dialogue can bring about a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict between their two countries. However, the Kremlin has dismissed the idea as premature and potentially unproductive, citing the lack of progress in previous negotiations and casting doubt on Zelenskys current political legitimacy.

The demand comes as Ukraines diplomatic position grows increasingly precarious, with stalled negotiations, continued fighting, and international scrutiny over Zelenskys legal authority to lead. Zelenskys five-year presidential term officially expired in ...