Zelenskiy, in open letter, invites Putin to talks to end the war

Yesterday Zelenskyy published an open letter to Putin.

The letter is for everyone to read, not just Putin.

The letter reflects the new realities of the war.

But provides Putin with assurances that Ukraine still is willing to talk.

Here are some highlights:

These lines capture the tone and substance of the letter:

“This war is your personal choice — a war without a real reason. This is how history will remember it.”

“Ukraine proposes ending this war through direct engagement between us — and you. I am proposing a meeting.”

“Do not be afraid to take the path out of this war.”

“If you do not personally come to the conclusion that it is time to end this war, Ukraine will continue fighting for its existence.”

Zelenskyy was had numerous audiences for his letter.

One was the Russian people. They are tired of the war started by Putin. And Ukraine is willing to talk one on one to see if it can be ended.

A second audience was the West. Zelenskyy is telling them that peace is is first goal. But if Putin does not desire peace, he is willing to fight on until Russia reaches that point.

Third is Putin. Zelenskyy is informing Putin that Ukraine is aware of the change in dynamics in the war. And that Ukraine has the means and ability to fight the war as long as needed until Russia leaves Ukraine.

Ukraine is fighting for its existence.

For its freedom.

There is no choice about continuing the fight.

Russia may have a choice, but Ukraine does not.

History will judge this war just as it judges all wars.

Putin has an opportunity to change how history will judge this war.

He can continue fighting until Russia no longer has the ability to fight.

And history will judge it most harshly.

Or he can try to resolve the war, and history will be softer in its judgment.

The Kremlin confirmed it received the letter and briefed Putin on it.

Officials said Putin would review it and could comment publicly later.

At this stage, there was no formal acceptance of Zelenskyy’s proposal.