Zelenskyy wants to end the war during Trump's current term
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
Ukraine is ready for negotiations at the highest level and would prefer to end the war with Russia during the current term of US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his evening address.
"A real ceasefire is needed. A real end to the war is needed. Ukraine is ready to meet at the highest level — the level where decisions are actually made," Zelenskyy said.
He added that he is prepared to meet in any format with those who make decisions and have the proper authority, including Russian President Vladimir Putin — "even though he has overstayed his constitutional powers by at least three terms."
"And ideally, the war should be ended during President Trump's current term. I am counting heavily on his support. I am counting heavily on the influence of the United States. That is something that can truly help. Sanctions are needed. Diplomacy is needed. Security is needed," the president emphasized.
Peace talks
The United States has positioned itself as a mediator between Ukraine and Russia in peace negotiations, although it has refrained from applying maximum pressure on Moscow.
On June 2, Ukraine and Russia held a second round of peace talks, during which both sides agreed on the exchange of prisoners and the bodies of fallen soldiers.
The Russian delegation also presented its own memorandum, which essentially turned out to be an ultimatum.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called Moscow's proposal political spam and a publicity stunt aimed at a domestic audience.
According to Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a third round of talks with Russia is currently not under consideration.
