Zelenskyy Outlines Ukraine's Stance on Talks with Russia

Statement from the Ukrainian President

According to Главком: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that a visit by a Ukrainian delegation to Moscow for negotiations is impossible. He emphasized that Ukraine is prepared for diplomatic dialogue on any neutral ground. According to him, the territories of countries involved in the aggression are excluded as possible venues for talks. Among the blocked locations is Belarus, a direct ally of Russia that facilitated its assault on Ukraine in 2022.

Zelenskyy noted that the Ukrainian side remains open to proposals from international partners for organizing a meeting on secure territories.

"We are ready to support proposals from the US, to meet on any territories – America, Europe, neutral countries. Any states, except for Russia and Belarus, because it is an ally in the offensive against Ukraine in 2022," the President stressed.

Readiness for Elections and Security

Furthermore, Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on a statement regarding an ultimatum from Washington to hold elections and a referendum by May 15, 2026. He confirmed a readiness to discuss any timelines but noted that security and a ceasefire are necessary preconditions for any expression of will.

"We are not against elections. We are ready to work with any schedules that American colleagues will propose, but only through adherence to security conditions," Zelenskyy stated.

Thus, the main vectors for a meeting location are defined:

• America
• Europe
• Neutral countries

Blocked locations for negotiations remain Russia and Belarus. The physical possibility of conducting a democratic process, according to Zelenskyy, depends on the situation on the battlefield, which also underscores the importance of security in the context of future elections.

This statement by the president highlights Ukraine's aspiration for a peaceful settlement of the conflict but also demonstrates a resolve not to conduct negotiations on territories that could threaten its security. In conditions of ongoing aggression and uncertainty on the front, the question of security is key for any political processes, including elections. Defining neutral venues for talks could become an important step in international efforts to end the conflict and restore stability in the region. The ongoing war, now in its third year, makes security the paramount concern for any diplomatic or political initiative.