Zelenskyy says Ukraine ‘ready’ for peace negotiations, calls Trump meeting ‘regrettable’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed Ukraine’s readiness to engage in peace negotiations to bring an end to the ongoing conflict with Russia. This announcement comes in the wake of a contentious meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, which Zelenskyy described as “regrettable.”

Ukraine’s Commitment to Peace

In a recent statement, President Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s eagerness to pursue peace, stating, “None of us wants an endless war. Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians.”

Zelenskyy outlined initial steps toward de-escalation, proposing the release of prisoners and the cessation of aerial and maritime hostilities targeting civilian infrastructure, contingent upon reciprocal actions from Russia. He expressed a desire to collaborate closely with the United States to secure a comprehensive and enduring peace agreement.

Tensions with the United States

The Ukrainian leader’s call for peace negotiations follows a heated exchange with President Trump during a recent Oval Office meeting. The discussion, intended to finalize a minerals and security agreement, deteriorated over disagreements regarding Ukraine’s commitment to peace and the terms of the deal. The discord led to the suspension of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, raising concerns about Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid ongoing Russian aggression.

Reflecting on the encounter, Zelenskyy remarked, “Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is regrettable that it happened this way. It is time to make things right.”

International Reactions

European allies have expressed unwavering support for Ukraine in light of the strained U.S.-Ukraine relations. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and emphasized the necessity of continued military assistance. He also urged the United States to maintain its support for Ukraine during this critical period.

President Zelenskyy’s dual focus on mending diplomatic ties with the United States and initiating peace talks with Russia underscores his administration’s dedication to achieving stability and peace for Ukraine. The international community remains attentive to these developments, recognizing that the outcomes will significantly impact the geopolitical landscape and the future of Ukraine.