What conditions does Zelensky set for direct talks with Russia?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he is ready for any form of negotiations with Russia only after a complete ceasefire is implemented on Ukrainian territory. He said this during a meeting with journalists.

President Zelensky emphasized that during the negotiation process, there should be no obstacles or “dead ends”. At the same time, he reiterated that Crimea was illegally occupied by Russia, and Ukraine does not recognize this.

“Crimea is our land, the territory of the Ukrainian people. There can be no other interpretation, because it contradicts our Constitution,” Zelensky explained.

Zelensky also reminded that only NATO member states have veto power over Ukraine’s membership in the alliance.

The Ukrainian leader also addressed reports about the United States potentially pulling out of the peace negotiations.

“We do not want the United States to abandon its support. This is not just about aid, but also intelligence, ballistic missile defense, and the lives of our people. I believe losing such a strategic partner as the U.S. would be a major loss. If America pulls out of the negotiations, it would be a bad signal. That’s why we hope that President Donald Trump will continue cooperation with Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia,” said Zelensky.

It should be recalled that U.S. President Donald Trump, on April 20, expressed hope that Russia and Ukraine would reach a peace agreement “within this week”. He also announced that he would present his plan for achieving peace in Ukraine within the next three days. According to insider sources, the plan may propose Ukraine de facto handing over 20% of its territory to Russia.

The peace plan also includes a proposal to deploy international peacekeeping forces to Ukrainian territory to monitor the ceasefire. Oversight would be conducted by a joint commission composed of representatives from neutral countries.

Previously, President Zelensky had proposed to Russia a 30-day halt to long-range strikes on civilian infrastructure, with the possibility of extension. President Vladimir Putin responded that the proposal would be reviewed and did not rule out bilateral negotiations.

“This issue requires serious study, and it can be addressed in a bilateral negotiation format,” Putin had said.

The entire international community is now closely watching how peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine will unfold. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!