Putin Responds to Zelensky’s Letter, Says Meeting Would Be Pointless

Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum on June 5, Putin said he had read Zelensky’s open letter that morning. He addressed comments about his age and time in office, criticized Ukraine’s election policy, and claimed Zelensky had requested a meeting through a Russian businessman. Putin said he had never refused talks but questioned the purpose of such a meeting and argued it would primarily benefit Ukraine.