Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that a meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump is a crucial condition for initiating a dialogue with Moscow in a specific format, Adyrna national portal reports, citing Associated Press.
“I believe that first and foremost, we need to hold a meeting with Trump. This is very important. Let me note that all of Europe wants this,” Zelensky said.
According to him, after establishing communication with the U.S. leader, it would be necessary to transition to some format of negotiations with Russia. Zelensky believes that representatives of Ukraine, Russia, the U.S., and the European Union should be at the negotiating table.
Additionally, Zelensky once again emphasized the necessity of Ukraine joining NATO.
“I truly believe that this is the most cost-effective way for Ukraine to obtain security guarantees. This benefits everyone,” he explained.
He noted that Kyiv’s accession to the alliance would be a major victory for Trump because it would demonstrate that the decision is made by the U.S. and that Russia has no influence over it. Moreover, NATO would gain Ukraine’s 800,000-strong army.
If Ukraine is offered alternative security guarantees, then it must receive the necessary amount of weapons from the U.S. and Europe and ensure the support of its defense industry, Zelensky added.
Previously, Trump had repeatedly stated his readiness to establish contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin, including holding a meeting. Putin had also expressed similar intentions. However, there is no official information on whether the two leaders will actually hold negotiations or communicate by phone.
Earlier, Putin referred to Zelensky as an “illegitimate president,” arguing that his presidential term ended in May 2024, making him ineligible to sign a peace agreement.
