Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that he had received signals from allies about Russia‘s desire to conduct direct negotiations. His words are quoted by RIA Novosti .

During a conversation with reporters, Zelensky said that he received signs from partners that showed Russia‘s readiness for dialogue with Ukraine .

“I have received signals from the leaders of states who say: we think [Russian President Vladimir] Putin wants direct negotiations. And I said: we will offer a public form,” the Ukrainian leader said.

The head of state added that he did not want to hold negotiations with Russia “behind the scenes.” The day before, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Ukraine cannot and does not want to negotiate with Russia. He stressed that Russia will achieve its goals by continuing the special military operation.

After the start of the special operation, the parties held several face-to-face rounds of contact group talks. Representatives of Moscow and Kyiv met in Belarus, and the last meeting of the delegations took place in Istanbul on March 29.