Zelenskyy gives Ukraine’s top negotiator three tasks ahead of talks in US
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (facebook.com/zelenskyy.official)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has given the National Security and Defense Council (RNBO) Secretary Rustem Umerov three tasks ahead of his talks with US representatives, according to a statement by Zelenskyy on Telegram.
"First — the humanitarian track. We hope that a new stage of prisoner releases will be possible. Second — the activation of the diplomatic process," the president noted.
The head of state emphasized that Ukraine is in constant communication with the US and is aware of the partners’ contacts with the Russian side.
"Third — there are several specific security tasks for the RNBO Secretary regarding our cooperation with America," Zelenskyy stated.
He added that he expects a detailed report following today’s meetings.
Reuters reported that Umerov’s visit to the US was caused by the fact that peace talks on ending the war have reached a deadlock.
Ukraine had hoped for a visit by US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in the spring, but it did not happen. The US is now more focused on the war with Iran.
Peace talks
The New York Times previously wrote that neither Kyiv nor Moscow has a clear plan for peace or victory. The outlet emphasized that an agreement is unlikely without an active US role and significant pressure on Russia.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Zelenskyy is ready to meet with Putin if the presidents of the US and Türkiye also participate in the talks.
Last month, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said his country is ready to host the next round of peace talks between Ukraine, the US, and Russia.
RBC-Ukraine also reported that sources in the Ukrainian government warned that the US may soon launch a new round of pressure.
