Zelenskyy says ceasefire must come before diplomatic solution

Zelenskyy said that today he had a telephone conversation with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and informed him about contacts with partners and Ukraine's diplomatic efforts.

The president also thanked Lithuania and all the countries of Northern Europe and the Baltic region for yesterday's declaration in support of Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as their readiness to make diplomatic efforts, provide assistance to Ukraine, and strengthen sanctions against Russia.

"We share the same position: first there must be a ceasefire, and then the search for a diplomatic solution that will allow the war to end with a fair and lasting peace. Without clear security guarantees, any other agreements will only give Russia an opportunity to restore its strength," Zelenskyy noted.

The presidents also discussed the situation on the battlefield and the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Zelenskyy thanked Lithuania for its contribution to supplying Patriot systems to Ukraine.

"We also talked about the situation with the negotiation process regarding Ukraine's accession to the European Union. Gitanas fully shares our position: Ukraine and Moldova must move toward EU membership in sync and simultaneously. Thank you!" the head of state added.

Rumors about a US-Russia deal

Ahead of the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, media outlets have reported rumors that American and Russian officials may be preparing an agreement to freeze Russia's war against Ukraine. Under it, Moscow would retain control over the occupied territories.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly stressed that there will be no success if Washington and Moscow reach an agreement without Kyiv.

Today, Trump stated that he will not conclude a peace agreement to end Russia's war against Ukraine, as it is not his business.