Nor is there a chance that Russia will accept Zelensky remaining in office. That would be a non-starter with them.
“Nor is there a chance that Russia will accept Zelensky remaining in office. That would be a non-starter with them.”
Putin’s been clear that he doesn’t consider Zelensky to be the legitimate ruler of Ukraine as his term has expired and no one has yet been elected president. So, to Putin, Zelensky is no different than some hot Ukraine babe off the street signing a peace deal with Russia. Ukraine could honor that deal, or Ukraine could simply call the deal Illegitimate because it was signed by a person in no position to represent Ukraine.
So, elections first in Ukraine, but of course the elections will have to allow ALL potential candidates to run, at least the ones that are still alive. Then, maybe, talks.