KYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv on Thursday, reports say. Their planned joint press event was canceled upon U.S. request, Zelenskyy’s office confirmed. The two leaders originally intended to address the media after their discussion. Instead, they posed for photos without making statements. Ukrainian spokesman Serhii Nikiforov said the U.S. side requested the change.
Diplomatic Tensions
Kellogg’s visit happened amid growing friction between Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump. Recent disputes have strained their relations and raised questions about U.S. backing for Ukraine. The tension follows a U.S.-Russia agreement to improve ties and discuss ending the Ukraine war. Trump’s decision to engage Russia without Kyiv’s involvement angered Zelenskyy. European nations supporting Ukraine were also left out of these discussions.
Zelenskyy Responds
Zelenskyy expressed dissatisfaction over being excluded from the U.S.-Russia dialogue. He criticized Trump for claiming he was unpopular in Ukraine. The Ukrainian leader accused Trump of believing Russian propaganda.
Peace Talks
On his Telegram channel, Zelenskyy described his conversation with Kellogg as detailed and productive. Zelenskyy stated they discussed security guarantees and prisoner exchanges. He emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to a lasting and strong peace deal. He also said Ukraine is open to agreements on security and investments with the U.S.
U.S. Policy Shift
Trump’s decision marks a shift from the previous U.S. stance of isolating Russia. The sudden reversal has unsettled Ukraine and its allies. The new approach has raised concerns over the future of Western support for Kyiv. Some European leaders have also voiced unease about the policy change.
Uncertain Future
Zelenskyy remains wary of negotiations that exclude Ukraine. Ukrainian officials fear losing international backing amid shifting global alliances. The U.S. has yet to clarify its long-term plans for Ukraine.
