President proposes meeting with Putin outside Ukraine and Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a temporary pause in trilateral talks involving the U.S. and Russia due to shifts in Washington’s foreign policy priorities.
In an interview with the Italian broadcaster RAI, the president explained that American diplomacy is currently focused on stabilizing the Middle East.
Zelensky praised the United States’ role in achieving peace agreements in the region, specifically welcoming the signing of a ceasefire in Iran. According to the Ukrainian leader, stabilizing the situation in the Middle East will allow international partners to return to active discussions on countering Russian aggression.
The president expressed confidence that the diplomatic process will resume, though with new considerations. “But we will start from the beginning…,” Zelensky said, emphasizing Ukraine’s readiness for a new round of negotiations after the pause.
At the same time, he stressed that diplomatic efforts must not replace military assistance. He underscored that “support for Ukraine, including arms deliveries, must continue,” as it is a key condition for maintaining positions on the frontlines.
The interview also addressed the possibility of direct dialogue between the leaders of the warring countries. Zelensky confirmed his readiness to negotiate with the Kremlin’s head but ruled out holding such a meeting on either side’s territory. “I am ready to meet with Putin. Of course, not in Moscow or Kyiv,” the Ukrainian leader stated. He added that any neutral location could be used: “We can find a place in the Middle East, Europe, the United States, anywhere.”
Recall that Zelensky has warned that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will not stop if he gains control over Donbas and may attempt to capture other Ukrainian cities, including Dnipro and Kharkiv.
Previously, the Ukrainian president invited a U.S. negotiation delegation to visit Kyiv for talks. Zelensky also explained that no date for the next trilateral talks has been set due to U.S. security limitations and Russia’s unwillingness to meet in Washington.
