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Zelenskyy shares details of conversation with Trump

Zelenskyy shares details of conversation with Trump Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
Author: Daryna Vialko

The country will not accept any bilateral peace negotiations without its participation. Moreover, it is important for Ukraine that European partners are also at the negotiating table, stated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"I make this very clear to our partners. We will not accept any bilateral negotiations about Ukraine without us," Zelenskyy said.

The President also commented on yesterday's conversation with US President Donald Trump.

Zelenskyy described it as "a really good, nearly hour-long conversation." He clarified that during the call, Trump said he believes that Vladimir Putin wants peace and wants to end the war.

"And he said: 'I know that you want it too.' I told him: 'You speak with Putin as the leader of Russia, while I speak with you and think of him as an enemy. And I believe I am in a more realistic position. That’s why I don’t trust," Zelenskyy said.

According to the President, he told Trump that everyone wants to force Putin to end the war fairly for Ukraine, but he does not believe it will be that easy.

"And that’s why I said that security guarantees are undoubtedly a priority for us. We don’t see those guarantees without you. So let’s talk," Zelenskyy said.

Trump's conversation with Putin

Commenting on Trump's conversation with Putin, Zelenskyy said that Trump explained he allegedly wanted to speak with both presidents at the same time.

"In the conversation, he did not say that Putin and Russia were a priority, and today we trust these words…," the President emphasized.

He noted that the situation is unpleasant in any case, as Ukrainian society, like all of Europe, believes that Ukraine should come first. He also reminded that no decisions about Ukraine can be made without its participation.

When will Zelenskyy meet with Trump

The President noted that the date of his meeting with the US President has not yet been agreed upon.

"Calls are just calls, I understand that. But meetings are our priority. Ukraine, America, and only after such meetings. after working out a plan to stop Putin, I believe it would be fair to talk to the Russians," Zelenskyy said.

Europe must be at the negotiating table

Zelenskyy added that it is also very important for Ukraine that Europeans should be at the negotiating table. According to him, today, 80% of the cost of the war falls on Ukraine and Europe, while the United States contributes 20%.

"We cannot say that Europe does not support us. Europe provides very strong support. The US is undoubtedly the largest donor compared to any country in the world, they have given us the most, and we are grateful for that. But comparing America to Europe wouldn’t be fair; they are both our allies. Europe has invested heavily and has helped us significantly. And they continue to do so, which is important," Zelenskyy said.

He noted that there is growing concern in Europe, as they do not yet see clear signals from the US that they will have a seat at the negotiating table.

"Everyone understands that a negotiation format could involve the US, Ukraine, and Russia. But where is Europe? I am very interested in ensuring that Europe is part of this process. We cannot predict how things will unfold, but we must remain strong together," the President concluded.

Trump-Putin conversation

Last night, Trump and Putin held a phone call during which they discussed, among other topics, the war in Ukraine. Following the conversation, the US President announced plans to meet with Putin.

The Kremlin claimed that Trump and Putin instructed their aides to begin preparations for the meeting.

Immediately after speaking with Putin, Trump called Zelenskyy. The conversation reportedly lasted about an hour, after which the Ukrainian leader disclosed details of their discussion.

A day later, Trump stated that he had "great talks" with both Russia and Ukraine, adding that there is a good chance to end the war.