Putin open to phone call with Zelensky, Ukraine suspects a Kremlin trap

The Kremlin prefers a phone call between Presidents Zelensky and Putin instead of an in-person meeting, which Ukraine insists is necessary for meaningful negotiations. Ukrainian officials suspect Moscow aims to avoid direct talks, believing a phone call would yield little progress. Kyiv argues that only leaders can address critical territorial issues, as previous attempts at negotiations have been unproductive. The U.S. supports a leaders' meeting, potentially at the G20 summit, while Ukraine prepares for talks in Abu Dhabi to discuss de-escalation and other key issues. Ukrainian officials emphasize that Putin's direct involvement is essential for any substantial agreements.