Putin Rejects Summit with Zelensky, Accuses Ukraine of Terrorism

Putin Rejects Zelensky Meeting Amidst Accusations of Terrorism and Train Derailment. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine took a new turn as Russian President Vladimir Putin firmly rejected any possibility of a summit with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky. Putin's refusal follows accusations that Ukraine is employing terrorist tactics against Russian civilians. The statement comes on the heels of a devastating train derailment in Russia, which has left seven dead and over a hundred injured. While Putin directly blames Ukraine for the incident, Zelensky expressed skepticism about Putin's motives, suggesting that any potential ceasefire is merely a tactic to delay the imposition of US sanctions. "Who negotiates with those who rely on terror, with terrorists?" Putin stated in a press conference. Zelensky, in a separate address, voiced his distrust of the Istanbul peace talks, stating that Putin is using them to stall. The incident underscores the escalating tensions in the region and raises questions about the prospects for a peaceful resolution.