KYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed Kyiv’s willingness to engage in direct negotiations with Moscow, contingent upon Russia agreeing to a comprehensive ceasefire.
This marks a shift in Ukraine’s previously steadfast position against direct dialogue since the escalation of hostilities began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
Zelenskyy shared this development during a press conference with POLITICO, emphasizing that the ball is in Russia’s court. “If the Russians, and it depends on them, again we saw this at Easter, they can reduce strikes when they want to … If the Russians are ready for a complete ceasefire, then after a complete ceasefire is established, we are ready for any format of negotiations with them,” he stated.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also indicated a willingness to consider direct dialogue in light of Zelenskyy’s proposal to cease strikes on civilian targets. Reports suggest that Putin is open to a temporary halt to the invasion along existing front lines, which might involve a concession on some territories currently under Russian control. In return, Russia seeks U.S. acknowledgment of its claim over Crimea and territorial gains made since the onset of the conflict.
This new diplomatic tone follows comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to retract from discussions aimed at resolving the conflict if either side obstructs the ceasefire process. Trump expressed hopes that an agreement could be reached within the week, reiterating his commitment to resolve the conflict within the first 100 days of his potential second term by April 30.
Ahead of a critical meeting on Wednesday, where Ukrainian officials and European allies will gather with U.S. representatives in London to deliberate on a ceasefire strategy, Zelenskyy highlighted the urgency for dialogue. “Tomorrow in London, our team has a mandate to officially discuss an unconditional ceasefire or a partial one. We are ready for this stage. We are also prepared to indicate our willingness to negotiate in any format to avoid a deadlock,” he affirmed.
While Kyiv awaits an official proposal from the U.S., Zelenskyy noted that various ideas have circulated through informal channels and the media. Reports suggest that the U.S. plan may require Ukraine to forgo its ambitions of NATO membership and recognize territories occupied by Russia as part of its domain, a suggestion Kyiv has historically rejected due to constitutional prohibitions against acknowledging territorial concessions.
“Engaging in discussions that attempt to address everything simultaneously will only extend the conflict and potentially lead to U.S. fatigue or increased pressure on Ukraine,” Zelenskyy warned. “A ceasefire would demonstrate that we have achieved some level of progress and would serve as a sign that Russia is genuinely prepared to take meaningful steps.”
