Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made it clear on Thursday that his government will not accept any peace agreements unless directly involved in the negotiations. This statement came as a response to the recent phone conversation between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe. "I have made it very clear to our partners: any bilateral talks about Ukraine without our participation are unacceptable," Zelensky stated during a visit to a nuclear facility in the Khmelnytskyi region, reported by the Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform and noted by EFE.
It is important to mention that President Trump announced on Wednesday that he had reached an agreement with Russian President Putin to begin "immediate negotiations" aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.
Reactions to Trump's Engagement with Putin
Following the Trump-Putin conversation, Zelensky engaged in a detailed dialogue with the American president, expressing his appreciation for the United States' commitment to pursuing peace. In a statement on X, Zelensky said: "I had a long and detailed conversation with President Trump. I value his sincere interest in our shared opportunities and how we can achieve genuine peace together. We believe that the strength of America, alongside Ukraine and all our partners, is sufficient to pressure Russia towards peace."
Discussion on Ukrainian Elections
The conversation between the two leaders did not touch upon the topic of Ukrainian elections, as confirmed by Zelensky. However, Trump's envoy for the Ukrainian war, Keith Kellogg, has recently urged Ukraine to hold elections as soon as possible, following Putin's questioning of Zelensky's democratic legitimacy.
Zelensky’s term was set to end in May 2024. However, the Ukrainian Constitution prohibits elections under martial law, which means his government will remain in power until conditions allow for a vote.
Key Insights on Ukraine's Political Situation
Why is Zelensky opposed to negotiations without Ukraine's involvement?
Zelensky insists that any negotiations regarding Ukraine must include his government to ensure that Ukraine's interests and sovereignty are upheld during the peace process.
What did Trump and Putin agree on regarding Ukraine?
Trump and Putin agreed to initiate immediate negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine, although details of these discussions have not been fully disclosed.
What is the current status of elections in Ukraine?
Elections in Ukraine are currently on hold due to martial law. The government, led by Zelensky, remains in power until it is feasible to conduct elections.