Zelenskyy Skeptical About Ceasefire Talks with Russia Amid High-Level Discussions
Zelenskyy's Concerns Over Ceasefire Negotiations
On Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed doubts regarding the recent calls for a ceasefire with Russia, which included discussions with US President Donald Trump and various European leaders. He stated, "This is a defining moment. The world is watching to see if its leaders can bring an end to the conflict and establish genuine, lasting peace." Zelenskyy shared insights about his conversations with global leaders concerning Russia's intentions through a post on X.
He mentioned, "I spoke with President Trump twice today. Initially, we had a private call before his discussion with the Russian president, and later we spoke together with European leaders: Emmanuel Macron, Giorgia Meloni, Friedrich Merz, Alexander Stubb, and Ursula von der Leyen." He reiterated Ukraine's willingness to pursue a full and unconditional ceasefire, emphasizing, "I assured President Trump that Ukraine is prepared for a complete and unconditional ceasefire, as has been discussed by the US. It is crucial that this offer is not diluted."
Trust Issues Persist Despite Willingness for Peace Talks
I spoke with @POTUS twice today. First, we had a one-on-one call before his conversation with the head of Russia, and later we spoke together with President Trump and European leaders President @EmmanuelMacron, Prime Minister @GiorgiaMeloni, Federal Chancellor @bundeskanzler,… pic.twitter.com/mm6a0Pro84
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 19, 2025
Zelenskyy further pointed out the existing trust deficit between Ukraine and Russia, despite Ukraine's readiness for peace negotiations. He stated, "I reaffirmed that Ukraine is open to direct talks with Russia in any format that can lead to results. We are considering various venues, including Turkey, the Vatican, and Switzerland. Our representatives are prepared to make significant decisions in these negotiations. It is essential that Russia is equally prepared for productive discussions."
Cautious Optimism Amid Ongoing Conflict
The Ukrainian leader's remarks were influenced by Russia's previous actions. He cautioned, "If Russia continues its attacks, fails to release prisoners and hostages, and presents unrealistic demands, it will indicate that Russia is prolonging the war. Consequently, Europe, America, and the global community should respond accordingly, including imposing further sanctions. Russia must end the conflict it initiated, and it has the power to do so at any moment. Ukraine remains ready for peace."
In contrast, US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that there has been 'some progress' in ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. This development follows a lengthy call Trump had with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While Trump expressed hope regarding the efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict, Putin remarked, "We just need to identify the most effective ways to advance towards peace."