Zelensky on negotiations: The US and Europe can be mediators with Russia simultaneously 05/31/2026 20:17 Ukrinform Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he considers the best format for negotiations with the Russian Federation to be one where both the United States and European partners participate.
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 idea 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 involved. I think this is the strongest, most powerful negotiation format,” the President said.
Zelensky was also asked if he considers it possible that “the Russian Federation will ever be able to agree to end the war.”
The President of Ukraine noted that there are currently “several directions” in negotiations, 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 leadership level, at the level of national security advisors, but it was good,” Zelensky stated.
He also noted 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… whether they will be ready, theoretically. I think yes, more sanctions, more pressure, and they will be ready for dialogue,” said the President of Ukraine.
As Ukrinform reported, Foreign Minister 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 strengthens its arguments in negotiations to end the war.
Photo: OP
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