The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, believes that excluding Kyiv from the negotiation process between the USA and Russia regarding the resolution of the war poses a serious threat. He urged Washington and Kyiv to continue dialogue to develop a ceasefire plan.
The head of state made this statement in an interview with the Associated Press.
According to Zelensky, Russia is currently not interested in negotiating a ceasefire, as the Kremlin views such discussions as a sign of defeat amid the advantages of its troops on the battlefield.
The President also expressed the opinion that U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump could compel Vladimir Putin to come to the negotiating table by threatening severe sanctions against the Russian energy and banking sectors, as well as by continuing support for Ukrainian military forces.
I believe these are the closest and most crucial steps, Zelensky emphasized.
His statement came after comments from Trump, who had previously stated that American and Russian representatives are "already conducting" negotiations regarding the cessation of the war. Current President Joe Biden confirmed that his administration has held "very serious" discussions with Moscow, although he did not disclose any details.