In an interview with Associated Press, he emphasized that such a scenario poses a serious threat not only to Ukraine but to the entire world.
The Need for Open Dialogue
According to Zelensky, Ukraine needs to engage in more negotiations with Washington to develop a ceasefire strategy. However, the Russian side, as he stated, refuses to discuss potential compromises, fearing that it would be perceived as a defeat, especially in light of its military successes on the battlefield.
Trump, Sanctions, and Influence on Putin
The Ukrainian leader also expressed the opinion that former U.S. President Donald Trump could compel Russian leader Vladimir Putin to come to the negotiating table. He believes that this requires threatening Russia with strict sanctions against the energy and banking sectors, as well as continuing support for the Ukrainian army.
"This is one of the most important steps. Of course, they (the U.S. and Russia) may have their own relations, but discussing Ukraine without its participation is dangerous for everyone," Zelensky emphasized.
0 Contacts with the New U.S. Administration
The President of Ukraine noted that his team maintains connections with representatives of the Trump administration; however, these discussions are currently general in nature. Zelensky expressed hope for personal meetings, where more detailed agreements could be developed. He also pointed out that Trump focused on domestic issues in the first weeks following his inauguration.
Negotiations: Who Should Be at the Table?
Recalling his first phone call with Trump during the election campaign, Zelensky shared that they agreed to meet in the event of the Republican's victory. However, the visit of Trump’s special representative for Ukraine and Russia, K.T. McFarland, was postponed.
"First and foremost, we need to meet with him in person. This is important, and it’s what many in Europe expect. After that, we can move to a negotiation format with Russia. I would like to see the U.S., Ukraine, Russia, and, of course, the European Union at the table. That would be fair and effective, but how it will be organized is still unknown," he noted.
1 Risks and Threats from the Kremlin
Zelensky also warned the international community against allowing Putin to control the course of the war. He reminded that the Russian leader has repeatedly threatened to escalate the military conflict during the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden.
Western View on Ukraine
Additionally, the President of Ukraine commented on the recent statement by the new U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the war has set Ukraine back a hundred years. Zelensky invited the American diplomat to visit Ukraine to personally see the destruction caused by Russia and to assess the efforts of the Ukrainian people in ensuring their own security and stability in the region.
"Rubio should come here to understand what is really happening. He needs to see the consequences of Russian aggression and what Ukrainians are doing for their future and the safety of the world," Zelensky concluded.
2 The Ukrainian president sent a clear message to the world: negotiations about the future of his country cannot take place without the involvement of Kyiv.