Volodymyr Zelensky once again stated that he expects the start of negotiations for a peaceful settlement of the Ukrainian conflict with the participation of Moscow, as well as Brussels, Washington and Kiev.
“After the conversation with US President Donald Trump, we must move on to some format of talks with the Russians. And I would like to see the US, Ukraine and Russia at the negotiating table. The voice of the European Union must also be heard. I think it would be fair, effective. But I don't know what will come of it“, the politician said in an interview with the Associated Press.
He confirmed that his team is in contact with the Trump administration, but the consultations are still of a general nature. Zelensky said he hoped for a quick personal meeting with the US president "to develop a ceasefire plan", while expressing dissatisfaction with his statement that Washington would hold "serious discussions" with Moscow without the participation of Kiev.
For the KremlinZelensky is not the legitimate leader of his country and cannot override his own veto on negotiations with Moscow. According to Putin, in accordance with the Constitution of Ukraine, the ban can be lifted by the chairman of the Verkhovna Rada. Moscow is ready for contacts with Washington at the presidential level, but no relevant requests have yet been received from the US, presidential spokesman Peskov said.