Zelenskyy cites reason for postponement of peace talks with Russia
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Peace talks between Ukraine, the US, and Russia have been postponed again due to the US operation against Iran. The meeting was initially planned for late February, then rescheduled for last week, but was delayed once more because of Russia, states Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to Suspilne.
"There’s a whole soap opera with these talks because of the war in the Middle East. The Americans said they are ready for a meeting, but only in the US, because the war and security situation prevent them from leaving the US right now," the president said.
According to him, the Ukrainian side proposed flying to Miami or Washington to hold the talks there. But the Russians did not want to travel to the US. They suggested Turkey or Switzerland, but Washington did not agree to that option.
Ukraine, Zelenskyy noted, is ready to meet with the Americans and Russians in any country: the US, Türkiye, Switzerland, or even the UAE. However, the venue, he emphasized, depends entirely on the American delegation.
"They are the organizers of this meeting. We are waiting for them," the president concluded.
Peace talks between Ukraine, the US, and Russia
Earlier in 2026, Ukraine, with US mediation, held several rounds of talks with Russia. Progress was made on the military track, specifically regarding monitoring a ceasefire.
However, the parties could not reach an agreement on the ceasefire itself, as Russia demands the surrender of non-occupied Donbas, which Ukraine refuses. The US, meanwhile, proposes creating a free economic zone there.
Western media reported that the round of talks that still has not taken place could be the last if Russia does not force Ukraine to accept its conditions. In that case, Moscow is considering withdrawing from the negotiation process.
Zelenskyy also stated that future talks need to include a meeting at the leaders’ level, as this is the format in which a resolution on the territorial issue can be reached.
