Recent developments underscore persistent barriers to a Putin-Zelenskyy meeting. Russian officials have repeatedly rejected direct leader-level talks without prior expert-level agreements or Ukrainian concessions, such as halting advances, while favoring negotiations only in Moscow or after a comprehensive peace framework rather than temporary ceasefires. Ukrainian statements emphasize readiness for bilateral or trilateral discussions, including at upcoming forums or via US mediation, to secure a ceasefire and exchanges. Escalating strikes on energy infrastructure, despite US diplomatic efforts on an energy truce, and Moscow's focus on long-term objectives have sustained uncertainty. Scheduled diplomatic contacts and any shifts in battlefield or US pressure could influence timelines.