Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told Italian TV channel RAI 1 on Wednesday that Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine should be the starting point for any discussions between the two leaders.

“As president, I’m ready to talk to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, but only with him. No need for any of his intermediaries. And within the framework of dialogue, no ultimatum“, said Mr. Zelensky.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reuters

Ukraine and Russia have not held face-to-face talks since March 29. The Interfax news agency quoted Moscow’s chief negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, as saying peace talks were being held remotely.

Zelensky also rejected suggestions that Ukraine should make concessions to secure a peace deal that would allow Putin to save face, adding that Ukraine would not compromise on its territorial integrity.

“Get out of the territory that you have occupied since February 24. This is the first clear step to talk about anything,” he said.

Russia did not immediately comment on these statements.

Controversy surrounding Finland and Sweden’s desire to join NATO

After Finland and Sweden showed their determination to join NATO, objections were raised from NATO members such as Turkey.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on May 13 that it was impossible for Turkey to support Finland and Sweden joining NATO, arguing that these Nordic countries are “home to many terrorist organizations”.

“We are monitoring developments regarding Sweden and Finland, but we do not have a positive view,” Erdogan told reporters in Istanbul, according to Reuters.

Swedish Defense Minister Peter Hultqvist (left) and Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde during a news conference in Stockholm. epa

Meanwhile, the Swedish parliament on the same day announced security policy review believes that the country’s accession to NATO will reduce the risk of conflict in Northern Europe.

In Finland, a government emergency response committee said the country was ready to respond if Russia cut off future gas supplies.

See more: President Erdogan: Turkey does not support Finland, Sweden joining NATO

Germany considers supplying IRIS-T air defense system to Ukraine

Germany is considering supplying the IRIS-T SLM medium-range air defense system to Ukraine, Reuters quoted a security source as saying on May 13.

Daily News Bild Germany earlier reported that the German cabinet’s security council was discussing the matter and that IRIS-T SLM systems, made by German private arms manufacturer Diehl Defense, could be deployed. declared in Ukraine since November.

According to Bild, Ukraine is interested in receiving 10 IRIS-T SLM systems, which can be produced within the next 3 to 4 years. The newspaper said the system can launch missiles at a distance of 40 kilometers (25 miles) to bring down fighter planes, helicopters or missiles.

Training for Ukrainian soldiers could begin as soon as the German government approves the plan, according to the report.