US Pushes Ukraine, Not Russia, For Concessions, Says Zelenskyy Officially

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed hope for United States-brokered peace talks with Russia to commence next week. The negotiations are set to take place in Geneva, Switzerland, and will be mediated by Washington.

Zelenskyy stated that he hopes the trilateral talks will be “serious, substantive” and “helpful for all parties involved.” However, he also expressed concerns that the sides may be discussing different issues, with the Americans often focusing on concessions made by Ukraine.

The Ukrainian leader emphasized the importance of clear security guarantees in ending the war. He stated that without a clear security system, war is likely to return. Zelenskyy also noted that Europe’s involvement in the negotiations would be beneficial, as Moscow has opposed it.

The talks will focus on several contentious issues, including Russia’s demand for a full withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from certain areas and Ukraine’s demands for Western security guarantees. The US had proposed a 15-year security guarantee, but Ukraine is seeking a longer-term deal.

Zelenskyy acknowledged that he feels pressure to make progress in the negotiations, particularly from US President Donald Trump. He also called on his allies to take greater action to press Russia into making peace, including tougher sanctions and more weapons supplies.

The Ukrainian president also expressed surprise at Russia’s decision to change its delegation to the Geneva talks, which may suggest a desire to delay any decisions being made. Zelenskyy has previously denounced Vladimir Putin as a “slave to war,” drawing parallels with the 1938 Munich Agreement.

In his remarks, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine currently has approximately 7,000 soldiers in Russian-controlled territory, while Russia has around 4,000 Ukrainian personnel. He also emphasized the need for a ceasefire monitoring mission and an exchange of prisoners of war to be accepted by Russia.

Source: Al Jazeera