Zelensky Claims Openness to ‘Any Format’ of Talks with Russia
Zelensky Seeks Role in Trump–Putin Peace Efforts, Signals Readiness for Ceasefire-Based Talks. Ukraine Pushes for Inclusion as Budapest Summit Takes Shape
Palestine, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced frustration over being excluded from emerging peace discussions between the United States and Russia, expressing his willingness to join a proposed summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest.
In an interview with NBC’s Meet the Press, Zelensky stated, “If we truly want a just and lasting peace, we need both sides of this tragedy. How can there be any deals about us, without us?”
He confirmed that he personally told Trump: “I’m ready,” affirming Ukraine’s demand to be directly involved in any agreement addressing the war.
Reports emerged earlier that Trump and Putin held a phone conversation on Thursday, during which they discussed the Ukraine conflict. Trump later signaled his intention to meet Putin in Budapest, while also expressing plans for a separate meeting with Zelensky.
Ceasefire as a Condition for Talks with Russia
Zelensky further acknowledged his openness to negotiations with Russia, but only under a ceasefire along the current front lines. Following his meeting with Trump at the White House on Friday, he endorsed the call to “stop where we are” as a basis for diplomatic engagement.
Zelensky said he was ready for talks “in any format, bilateral, trilateral,” but once the fighting was stopped. “Not under missiles, not under drones,” he said.
Asked if he would push for an invitation to Trump’s planned summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, Hungary, Zelensky replied, “I’m ready.”
Tension Over Weapons Support
During their talks, Zelensky confirmed that Trump declined Kyiv’s request for long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles. Trump reportedly argued that such weaponry could escalate the conflict and impact US military reserves.
This marks a shift in Washington’s posture, as earlier considerations of supplying long-range weapons have given way to caution, particularly after renewed diplomatic contacts between Trump and Putin.
Russian Preconditions for Ceasefire
Russian officials have reiterated that any ceasefire would require Ukraine to withdraw its forces from territories under Russian control, end mobilization efforts, and halt the reception of foreign military aid.
Moscow has also demanded recognition of current borders and the abandonment of NATO membership plans.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that he is prepared to meet Zelensky, but only once a draft peace treaty is ready for signature. (PW)