In a recent interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated his openness to engage in direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that this approach could be essential for achieving peace in Ukraine. He stated that he is prepared to sit at the negotiating table if it is the only way to “bring peace to the citizens of Ukraine and not lose people.”
Possible participants in negotiations
During the conversation with British journalist Piers Morgan, Zelenskyy conveyed, “If that is the only set-up in which we can bring peace to the citizens of Ukraine and not lose people, definitely we will go for this set-up.” He hinted that any future discussions would involve four key participants, although he did not specify who they would be. Earlier in the weekend, Zelenskyy expressed a desire to include the United States, Ukraine, and Russia at the negotiating table, adding that “to be honest, a European Union voice should also be there.” He mentioned that such negotiations would need to take place after a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Critical stance towards support and losses
Zelenskyy characterized Putin as an adversary, stating, “I will not be kind to him, I consider him an enemy. To be honest, I think he considers me an enemy, too.” The Ukrainian leader acknowledged the grim reality that his country may have to concede some territory currently occupied by Russian forces since the invasion began in February 2022. He expressed disappointment with the level of support Ukraine has received from its allies, lamenting that “regrettably, the support that is provided by our partners is insufficient to push Putin fully out of our territories.”
Despite the challenges, Zelenskyy maintained that NATO membership represents Ukraine’s best opportunity to secure its future and bring an end to the ongoing conflict. He estimated that Ukrainian casualties have reached approximately 45,100, with 390,000 individuals injured. In contrast, he claimed that Russian losses stand at around 350,000 dead and 700,000 injured.
U.S. President Donald Trump, whose decisions are likely to significantly impact the war’s trajectory, mentioned during a press conference that the U.S. is “talking to the Russians, we’re talking to the Ukrainian leadership,” but did not elaborate further. Meanwhile, Putin indicated last week that Russia would be “open” to peace talks, yet he deflected responsibility, claiming a lack of willingness to resolve legal issues. He also disparaged Zelenskyy, calling him “not legitimate” to lead any potential discussions and suggested that he would appoint others to engage in negotiations.