Kyiv: Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky says his country will not accept any agreement made without its direct involvement.
Speaking to reporters, he stressed that “everything must not follow Putin’s plan,” which seeks bilateral talks with the US.
Zelensky made it clear that any negotiations must include Ukraine, and agreements excluding Kyiv would be unacceptable.
He also emphasized that European nations should have a seat at the negotiating table alongside Ukraine.
“There can be no discussions about Ukraine without Ukraine,” Zelensky firmly stated.
Trump-Putin Call
US President Donald Trump recently held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin about ending the war.
Trump said they agreed that peace negotiations should begin “immediately” to resolve the ongoing conflict.
However, Zelensky downplayed the call, saying it does not indicate that talking to Russia is Washington’s main priority.
He admitted that the discussion was “not very pleasing in any case” but stopped short of criticizing Trump directly.
The Ukrainian leader reiterated that security guarantees remain his country’s top concern.
Ukraine’s Priorities
Zelensky stated that Ukraine’s security depends on continued support from the US and its Western allies.
Without American backing, he does not see a path toward securing lasting stability for his country.
He warned that any deal between Washington and Moscow that excludes Ukraine would undermine its sovereignty.
Kyiv has consistently opposed any proposals that freeze the conflict without clear guarantees of security.
Ukraine insists that its territorial integrity must be preserved in any peace settlement.
Global Response
European leaders have echoed Zelensky’s stance, pushing for Ukraine’s participation in all negotiations.
NATO and EU officials have reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Russia has dismissed Ukraine’s objections, arguing that it will negotiate on its own terms.
Putin has previously said he is open to discussions but demands recognition of Russian-occupied territories.
Ukraine remains firm that it will not accept any deal that forces it to cede land.
Next Steps
The future of diplomatic talks remains uncertain as world leaders assess possible negotiations.
Ukraine will continue resisting any attempts to finalize a deal without its participation.
Washington has yet to clarify if Kyiv will be included in future discussions between the US and Russia.
For now, Ukraine remains focused on securing more aid and military support from its allies.
Zelensky’s message remains firm: Ukraine will not accept a peace deal made without its consent.
