Kremlin aide Yuri Ushkov says Finland and Norway have told Putin that Zelensky wants direct talks. Putin reportedly replied that Zelensky was "illegitimate" but could come to Moscow. Ushakov said that a meeting between the two leaders would make the most sense only after negotiations are completed and documents are prepared. Separately, Lavrov said the war will continue and is likely to escalate.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushkov says Finland and Norway have told Putin that Zelensky wants direct talks. Putin reportedly replied that Zelensky was "illegitimate" but could come to Moscow. Ushakov said that a meeting between the two leaders would make the most sense only after negotiations are completed and documents are prepared. Separately, Lavrov said the war will continue and is likely to escalate.