Putin rejects Zelenskyy's request for in-person meeting at St. Petersburg economic forum (pbs.org)

• Putin rejects in-person meeting with Zelenskyy.
• Zelenskyy's open letter proposes direct talks.
• Ukrainian drone strikes hit St. Petersburg.
• Putin vows to strengthen air defense.
• Ukraine gains momentum and territory.

"On June 5, 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's request for an in-person meeting, speaking at the annual St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. Zelenskyy had written an open letter proposing direct talks. The rejection came after Ukrainian drone strikes on St. Petersburg targeted an oil depot and a naval base. Putin acknowledged the attacks and vowed to strengthen air defense. Ukraine has momentum with long-range strikes and territorial gains, but Putin showed no willingness to negotiate."