Zelenskyy insists on Europe's participation in negotiations: We need fair partners
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
European leaders have serious concerns that there is no place for them at the negotiating table to end Russia's war against Ukraine. However, the Ukrainian authorities are interested in having Europe participate in the dialogue as well, according to a statement from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his visit to the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant.
"In Europe, there is serious concern that they have yet to see signals from the US indicating they have a place at the table. Everyone understands that a negotiation format could involve America, Ukraine, and Russia — but where is Europe? I am also very interested in having Europe involved," Zelenskyy said.
He noted that it is impossible to predict how negotiations will unfold, but "we must remain strong."
"We have already been through Normandy and Minsk, and I believe we have no right to step into that river again — it was quite a murky one. That’s why we will be very cautious. We need allies and fair partners when we reach the point of ending the active phase of this war," the president emphasized.
According to Zelenskyy, he will speak with several European leaders today, and tomorrow, meetings will take place in Munich.
The president also stressed that "the main thing is to ensure everything does not follow Putin’s plan."
"When he tries to arrange negotiations as a bilateral discussion between him and the US, we simply cannot accept any agreements made without us as an independent country. I am making this very clear to our partners: we will not recognize any bilateral negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine. I believe this is crucial because we want to secure victory for our people — above all, a lasting peace for Ukrainians," Zelenskyy underscored.
Trump’s talks with Putin and Zelenskyy
On February 12, Trump and Putin held a phone conversation, during which they discussed, among other things, the war in Ukraine. Following the call, the US president announced plans to meet with the Russian President, suggesting that the meeting could take place in Saudi Arabia.
The Kremlin claimed that Trump and Putin had allegedly instructed their aides to begin preparations for the meeting.
On the same day, the American leader also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Later, Trump stated that he had "great talks" with both Russia and Ukraine, adding that there is a "good chance to end the war."
Meanwhile, several European and Ukrainian media outlets began suggesting that Trump’s direct conversation with Putin could indicate that the US might negotiate peace in Ukraine without Ukraine itself or European countries.
Notably, UK Defense Secretary John Healey emphasized that negotiations on Ukraine cannot take place without Ukraine and that Ukraine’s voice must be central to any discussions.
Read more about Europe's reaction to Trump and Putin’s talks in RBC-Ukraine’s report.
