Zelenskyy calls on allies to pressure Russia before US diplomatic talks

US-Ukraine Talks Resume in Florida Amid Ongoing Conflict

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine has urged allies to maintain pressure on Russia’s economy ahead of the resumption of talks between Ukrainian and US officials in Florida. The second day of negotiations, which began on Saturday, will focus on finding ways to end the more-than-four-year conflict between the two countries.

The talks are being led by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, who is also a son-in-law of former US President Donald Trump. Russia’s representatives were not present at the discussions, which had originally been scheduled for the United Arab Emirates but were moved due to the US-Israeli conflict in Iran.

In a recent post on X, Zelenskyy highlighted the issue of Russia’s “shadow fleet” of tankers, which continue to export oil and gas despite Western sanctions. He emphasized that these vessels must be stopped and blocked, rather than allowed to operate freely. The Ukrainian president noted that the shadow fleet has helped to keep Russian oil exports flowing, with revenues giving Russia a sense of impunity and allowing it to continue the war.

The talks come as Ukraine and Russia remain far apart on key issues, including territory. Moscow has stated that it will not agree to a peace deal that gives up captured Ukrainian territory, while Kyiv has said it will not agree to a deal that does not lead to its return. The US is promoting a peace plan that includes a presidential election in Ukraine and territorial concessions.

Zelenskyy’s term as president has expired, but he remains under pressure from Trump to hold a vote. Ukrainian law bars wartime elections, but Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine would be willing to hold democratic elections if the US secures a two-month ceasefire to allow for preparation and security guarantees.

Source: Al Jazeera