Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine must approach any future negotiations with Russia from a position of strength, as Russian President Vladimir Putin remains uninterested in a negotiated settlement that does not lead to Ukraine’s capitulation.
Zelenskyy clarified that Ukraine cannot enter talks from a position of weakness, stating that Ukraine needs to be “strengthened by some important elements” before considering negotiations.
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Zelenskyy underscored that Putin does not seek genuine peace but would still consider coming to the negotiating table to reduce Russia’s diplomatic isolation and gain concessions from Ukraine.
He also stressed the importance of mediators recognizing that Russia violated Ukraine’s territorial integrity by invading in 2014 and 2022, and highlighted the need for any potential negotiation platform to reflect this reality.
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The Ukrainian president also shared his optimism following conversations with US President-elect Donald Trump, noting that Trump has expressed support for Ukraine and has listened to its position.
Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine must work toward ending the war through diplomatic means by 2025.
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