Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised concerns about ongoing peace talks between the U.S. and Russia regarding the war in Ukraine that exclude Kyiv, calling such discussions “very dangerous.” In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press, Zelenskyy emphasized that any negotiations on the conflict without Ukraine’s direct involvement would be detrimental not only to his country but also to global security.
Zelenskyy highlighted that Russia has shown little interest in ceasefire talks or concessions. He suggested that the U.S. could leverage its influence through sanctions targeting Russia’s energy and banking sectors, alongside continued military aid to Ukraine, to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into negotiations. He also expressed hope for more direct talks with the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump to find a path toward ending the war.
“I think these are the closest and most important steps,” Zelenskyy said, underlining the urgency of U.S. involvement. His comments came in the wake of remarks by Trump, who indicated that the U.S. and Russia had already begun discussions about ending the war, though he did not elaborate on specifics.
The war, now entering its third year, has seen Russia making slow but steady advances on the battlefield, while Ukraine suffers from severe manpower shortages. In response to this, Zelenskyy stressed that any ceasefire deal struck without security guarantees from Ukraine’s allies would ultimately pave the way for future Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy’s advocacy for a NATO membership remains a critical part of his strategy, arguing that it provides the most secure and affordable long-term guarantee for Ukraine’s defense. “NATO membership is the cheapest option for Ukraine’s allies,” he said, adding that it would reinforce Trump’s position geopolitically and provide a strong deterrent to Russian expansion.
On the matter of European security, Zelenskyy was cautious about a French proposal for European forces in Ukraine as a deterrent against Russia. While he acknowledged the potential value of such an initiative, he raised concerns about the operational logistics and leadership of such a force. “What will they do if there are Russian strikes?” he asked.
As the war continues to ravage Ukraine, Zelenskyy urged U.S. lawmakers, including Senator Marco Rubio, to visit Ukraine to see firsthand the devastation caused by Russia’s invasion and witness the resilience of the Ukrainian people in defending their country.
Zelenskyy’s remarks signal a critical juncture in Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts, with the country looking to the U.S. and its allies for not just military support, but a comprehensive and secure framework for peace.
