Ukraine’s Zelenskyy signals readiness for talks with Russia amid ongoing war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated his willingness to engage in negotiations, provided there is clarity on how the conflict will end for Ukraine.

His remarks suggest a shift in tone as he emphasised the need for discussions on achieving a "just" resolution to the war, Caliber.Az reports via UNIAN.

"I am ready for negotiations if we have an understanding of how this war will end for us. There are no issues with that, but Putin is afraid to talk to me," Zelenskyy stated. He dismissed claims that Kyiv is obstructing peace efforts, calling the Kremlin’s insistence on repealing Ukraine’s ban on talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin a "Russian narrative" aimed at avoiding direct engagement.

Despite Zelenskyy's remarks, the Kremlin remains dismissive of negotiations, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov insisting it is "too early" to consider four-way talks. Peskov also reiterated Moscow’s position that Zelenskyy is an "illegitimate" leader, arguing that his mandate expired in May 2024 and that he failed to hold elections.

Ukraine, however, maintains that national elections are legally impossible under martial law. Zelenskyy defended his legitimacy, citing his 2019 electoral victory with 73% of the vote. He also rejected the notion of elections during wartime, highlighting the logistical and ethical challenges of holding a vote while millions of Ukrainians are either displaced or living under Russian occupation.

"The key issue isn't just legal – it's human. How will soldiers in trenches vote? What about millions of Ukrainians in occupied territories? Do their voices no longer matter?" Zelenskyy questioned.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Washington and Moscow have been in contact regarding Ukraine, although Russian officials deny that direct negotiations are underway. Trump's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, has also raised concerns over Ukraine’s electoral situation, suggesting that Washington wants Kyiv to organise a vote by the end of the year, particularly if a ceasefire is reached.

Zelenskyy continues to push for increased Western pressure on Russia, warning that any relaxation of sanctions could lead to further aggression. He also provided rare casualty estimates for both sides, stating that Ukraine has suffered 45,100 deaths and 390,000 injuries, while estimating Russian losses at 350,000 dead and between 600,000 and 700,000 wounded, with many soldiers missing in action.

By Vugar Khalilov