Zelensky calls on his allies to work on a “formula” for peace talks with Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Saturday that his allies must work to determine a formula for any future peace talks with Russia, stressing that Kiev must be involved in order to hold successful negotiations.
Zelensky said during his meeting with his Moldovan counterpart, Maia Sandu, in Kiev, “It is impossible to exclude Ukraine from any negotiating platform, otherwise this platform will not produce real results.”
He added, “Before any meeting, whatever it is, it is appropriate to determine a formula on paper: How can we reach a just peace? I think we have to focus on this point today,” expressing his fear that Russia will choose the form of a peace resolution without Ukraine’s approval.

The Russian-Ukrainian war

Speculation has increased regarding possible peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia since the election of US President Donald Trump, noting that the conflict is about to end its third year.
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday his “readiness to work” with the United States on “negotiations on Ukrainian issues,” praising his American counterpart’s “pragmatism” and “intelligence.”

Trump and Putin

The Russian administration confirmed that it is waiting for “signs” from Washington in this regard, especially after Trump announced on Thursday his willingness to meet with Putin “immediately.”
Following his inauguration, Trump described the war in Ukraine as “ridiculous,” threatening Moscow with new economic sanctions if it did not agree to negotiations.