Zelenskyy: Kyiv awaits Russian version of peace memorandum

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Kyiv is awaiting Russia’s version of a proposed memorandum that could lay the groundwork for a peace agreement to end the ongoing conflict.

During a televised address on Ukraine’s public broadcaster, Zelenskyy said his government was ready to sign a memorandum aimed at bringing all parties closer to a formal settlement, Caliber.Az reports.

“We will wait for the Russian version of the memorandum,” the president stated.

Zelenskyy also confirmed that Kyiv is exploring the possibility of convening a broader diplomatic meeting involving representatives from the United States, Ukraine, Russia, and European nations. He suggested that such talks could potentially be hosted in Türkiye, the Vatican, or Switzerland.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has likewise expressed willingness to work on a memorandum, saying it would outline each side’s position ahead of possible negotiations on a peace treaty.

On May 19, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a pivotal two-hour phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, followed by discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders. Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine would "immediately" commence ceasefire negotiations, with potential venues including the Vatican, Turkey, or Switzerland.

Putin described the call as "useful," expressing Russia's readiness to collaborate on a peace memorandum. However, he emphasised the need to address the "root causes" of the conflict, such as Ukraine's NATO aspirations and territorial issues, before committing to an unconditional ceasefire.

Zelenskyy welcomed the initiative but voiced scepticism about Russia's intentions, citing ongoing military actions and previous unfulfilled agreements. He reiterated Ukraine's demand for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire and urged continued Western sanctions against Russia.

European leaders, while supportive of the peace efforts, expressed caution. French President Macron called for clear Russian commitments, and German Chancellor Merz emphasized the importance of Ukraine's sovereignty in any negotiations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev