Zelensky says Russia is trying to 'wriggle out' of peace talks

Ukrainian leader slams 'deliberate' Russian attack on American-owned factory complex

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KYIV - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow on Aug 21 of shirking a meeting between him and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, despite US-led attempts to arrange a summit to end the war.

US President Donald Trump is trying to end Russia's 3½-year-old invasion of Ukraine by bringing both Mr. Zelensky and Mr. Putin to the negotiating table.

But despite high-profile talks with Mr. Putin in Alaska last week and separate meetings with Mr. Zelensky and European leaders in Washington on Aug 18, there has been little tangible progress towards a peace deal.

Mr. Zelensky said Russia was "trying to wriggle out of holding a meeting".

"Frankly speaking, the signals coming from Russia are simply outrageous... They don't want to end this war," the Ukrainian leader said during an evening address.

"They continue their massive attacks on Ukraine and their ferocious assaults along the front line."

Mr. Zelensky has signaled willingness to meet Mr. Putin, but only after his allies agree on security guarantees for Ukraine to deter future Russian attacks.