Zelensky Calls on Allies to Establish a “Framework” for Peace Talks with Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged his allies to work on determining a framework for any future peace talks with Russia, emphasizing that Kyiv’s involvement is essential for successful negotiations. Zelensky expressed his belief that newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump could end the war but only if Ukraine is included in the talks.

Speaking on Saturday, Zelensky expressed hope for the participation of Europe and the U.S. in any negotiations to end Russia’s war with Ukraine. During a joint press conference with Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Zelensky stated that Ukraine must be part of any discussions to ensure tangible results. “It is impossible to exclude Ukraine from any negotiating platform; otherwise, the platform will yield no real outcomes,” he said. Zelensky added that Trump “cannot succeed without Ukraine’s participation, as Russia does not want to end the war, while Ukraine does.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday his “readiness to cooperate” with the U.S. on “negotiations regarding Ukrainian issues,” praising the American president’s “pragmatism” and “intelligence.”

Zelensky remarked, “Regarding preparations for talks… I truly hope that Ukraine, the U.S., Europe, and Russia will be involved.” He clarified later that no framework for these talks has been established yet. “Yes, I would really like Europe to participate, as we will become members of the European Union,” he said.

He further stressed, “Before any meeting of any kind, it is essential to define a framework on paper: How can we achieve a just peace? I believe we should focus on this today.” Zelensky expressed concern that Russia might impose a peace agreement without Ukraine’s consent.

Speculation about potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia has increased since Trump’s election, as the conflict approaches its third year. The Russian government has stated that it is awaiting “signals” from Washington, particularly after Trump announced on Thursday his readiness to meet with Putin “immediately.”

Following his inauguration, Trump called the war in Ukraine “absurd” and threatened Moscow with new economic sanctions unless it agreed to negotiations.

Zelensky accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of attempting to “manipulate” Donald Trump in relation to the former’s willingness to negotiate with the U.S. over the war in Ukraine. In his daily address on social media, Zelensky asserted, “Putin wants to exploit the U.S. president’s desire to achieve peace,” adding, “I am confident that any Russian manipulation will fail.”