Zelensky on negotiations: The US and Europe can simultaneously act as intermediaries with Russia 31.05.2026 20:17 Ukrinform Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he considers the best format for negotiations with the Russian Federation to be one that would involve both the United States and European partners.
As Ukrinform reports, he said this in an interview with CBS News.
The journalist recalled the statement by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that negotiations between Ukraine and the Russian Federation had reached a deadlock.
“I will always be on the side of the fact that this cannot be solely through the United States or Europe. I believed that the strongest position is when Ukraine, the Russian Federation, America (the United States), and Europe are present. I think this is the strongest, most powerful negotiation format,” said the President.
Zelensky was also asked if he considered it possible that “the Russian Federation could ever agree to end the war.”
The President of Ukraine noted that there are “several directions” in the negotiations now, although the American direction was a priority last year.
“It was a trilateral meeting, the United States, Ukraine, and the Russian Federation. Yes, it was at a technical level, not at the leaders’ level, but at the level of national security advisors, and it was good,” Zelensky stated.
He also mentioned that Ukraine is open to a third direction, which involves bilateral negotiations with the aggressor state, the Russian Federation, and its leader.
“I am ready to meet with Putin if he is ready. I think we need more sanctions. I think we need more pressure. And you asked when they (Russia – ed.) will be ready, and if… if they will be ready, theoretically. I think so, more sanctions, more pressure, and they will be ready for dialogue,” said the President of Ukraine.
As Ukrinform reported, Minister of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sybiga stated that Ukraine currently has “strong cards” – it has stabilized the front, possesses the most combat-ready army in Europe, and holds strong positions on the battlefield, which significantly enhances its arguments in negotiations to end the war.
Photo: OP
Europe Negotiations USA Russia Zelensky Peace talks
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