Ukraine‘s Zelensky: Peace Talks with Trump First, Then Putin if U.S. Offers Strong Security Guarantees
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that the first peace talks about ending the ongoing war will take place with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump after his inauguration. However, discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin might only occur if Trump presents "strong security guarantees for Ukraine."
Zelensky shared these insights during an interview with American podcast host Lex Friedman. "I think on January 25 or sometime after, we will first sit down with Trump," he said, adding that their objective would be to "deal with stopping the war and Putin."
The Ukrainian president also underscored the importance of Europe having a voice in these negotiations. He noted that European leaders consistently inquire about his conversations or meetings with Trump. "Europe will be watching us and Trump," he said, emphasizing the need for collective efforts.
Zelensky expressed a cautious optimism regarding negotiations with Russia. He suggested that talks with Moscow could commence only after Trump offers robust security assurances for Ukraine. "It won’t happen just immediately, the three of us sitting down," he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Zelensky cautioned that Trump could face political difficulties if he achieves a ceasefire without providing adequate security guarantees to Ukraine. He drew a parallel with his own political struggles in 2019, stressing the need to pressure Putin into making necessary concessions. "Don’t wait for Putin’s desire. Make him do what’s needed to end the war," Zelensky concluded.
Throughout his electoral campaign, Trump frequently boasted about his good relations with Putin and pledged to conclude the Ukraine conflict within 24 hours if elected. However, the new developments suggest a more nuanced approach to peace negotiations.
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