Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reaffirmed Kyiv’s readiness to engage in negotiations aimed at ending Russia’s full-scale invasion, stating unequivocally that any future peace process must involve both European and American participation.
Speaking in his regular evening address following a day of intensive consultations with Western leaders, Zelenskyy outlined Ukraine’s diplomatic priorities and expressed appreciation for the growing international consensus that Russia bears sole responsibility for prolonging the conflict.
“This is Russia’s war, Russia’s aggression. It is Russia that must agree to a ceasefire and to real diplomacy capable of securing peace,” Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy held separate calls with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, and Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama. He also welcomed Romania’s newly appointed Foreign Minister to Kyiv for her first official visit.
The Ukrainian President underlined that Russia’s war is not only a threat to Ukraine, but a direct assault on European security. “This is a war in Europe and against Europe,” he stated, adding that any decisions taken to end the conflict will have continent-wide implications. “All decisions aimed at ending this war and ensuring long-term security concern all of Europe. Europe’s voice must influence the process.”
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is coordinating closely with European partners to align positions ahead of any high-level negotiations, confirming that meetings on the continent are being planned. “We are working with European leaders to ensure our talks and future meetings are aligned—and to ensure that Europe’s interests are represented and defended.”
Zelenskyy confirmed that formats for possible negotiations have been under discussion in recent conversations with President Donald Trump and European heads of state. According to Kyiv, these discussions include both bilateral and trilateral models. Zelenskyy gave no details on timing or location but said the options were being explored in depth.
The Ukrainian government continues to insist on its own presence at any negotiation table. “It is only fair that Ukraine is a participant in the negotiations. This war is not only against us—it is against our sovereignty, and by extension, against the sovereignty of all European nations,” Zelenskyy said.
He also noted that all key decisions in Russia are taken by one person, widely understood to be President Vladimir Putin, and added that Washington’s sanctions continue to carry weight in the Kremlin. In this context, Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for President Trump’s openness to pursuing viable solutions.
Meanwhile, reports from within the Trump administration suggest that a potential meeting between Trump and Putin would only take place if the Russian leader also agrees to meet directly with Zelenskyy—effectively ruling out any peace arrangement that excludes Ukraine.
