Ushakov speaks about upcoming talks on Ukraine

The first rounds of talks on settling the Ukrainian conflict should take place in a trilateral format involving the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov told Vesti reporter Pavel Zarubin.

"We have working-level contacts with the Americans. Therefore, it is logical that at least the initial rounds of talks take place in a trilateral format," Yury Ushakov said.

According to the aide, representatives from Europe may also be present at the negotiating table, but the process must begin in a trilateral format.

He noted that if Vladimir Zelensky wants to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin in person, he is welcome to visit Moscow.

"He [Zelensky] is sending signals through various sources. If he really wants to negotiate, he is free to come [to Moscow]," Yury Ushakov said.

In response to a question about whether Putin would answer the phone if Zelensky called, the aide said: "I think he would answer, of course. Putin has never refused to talk."