'We do not trade our independence': Zelenskyy's office makes statement on dialogue with Russia
Photo: Head of the President’s Office Andriy Yermak (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine wants peace, but it does not depend solely on Ukraine. Russia is not showing a genuine desire to stop its aggression, states Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak in his interview with the German outlet Die Zeit.
Yermak recalled that more than 50 days ago, US President Donald Trump proposed a complete 30-day ceasefire. At the time, Ukraine agreed, while Russia responded with a three-day parade truce.
"We are ready for negotiations. But only after a full ceasefire. This is the position of Ukraine, the United States, and our European friends. We do not trade our independence. Our red lines are the Constitution, international law, and the UN Charter," Yermak stated.
He emphasized that Ukraine will never recognize the occupation of its territories.
"However, we are realists: we understand that some issues will have to be discussed at the negotiating table. We are ready for this — if Russia comes to the table as well," said the Head of the President’s Office.
He noted that Ukraine has proven itself to be a responsible and constructive partner. In particular, it signed a historic agreement with the United States, as it lays the foundation for future security through the economy.
"We are working with all partners, and we want people to come to Ukraine — to see with their own eyes that we are holding on, that we are strong and motivated. We are grateful to Germany for years of support and welcome the new Chancellor, Friedrich Merz. He has been with us since the first days of the war," he emphasized.
Idea of a ceasefire
Back in March, the United States proposed a complete 30-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. Ukraine supported the initiative, while Russia put forward a number of strict conditions.
Later, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov explained the refusal by saying Moscow feared that during the ceasefire, Ukraine would receive new weapons and reinforce its troops. He also claimed that supposedly no one would be able to monitor compliance with the ceasefire.
At the same time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Russia might agree to a 30-day ceasefire, but doing so would require pressure from the United States.
