Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed frustration regarding the postponed visit of a U.S. delegation to Kyiv, emphasizing the importance of this meeting for Ukraine.
During a press conference on June 3, Zelensky confirmed that there is currently no clear timeline for the arrival of U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, whose visit he had previously announced.
“We are in constant communication with the American side regarding our negotiators. We are expecting the arrival of the negotiation group. However, in my opinion, we have been waiting too long for them,” Zelensky stated.
The president lamented that Ukraine is not currently a priority for Washington. “Unfortunately, we are not in focus today. Iran is the number one issue for the United States, and then comes the issue of Ukraine. Unfortunately, we are in line behind these wars,” he explained.
Despite these setbacks, Zelensky remains hopeful that the visit will eventually take place. “I truly believe that the United States is the strongest player who can encourage Putin to end the war,” he added.
Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ukrainian presidential office and a member of the delegation involved in peace negotiations, asserted that contacts involving the U.S. are ongoing, despite the lack of public events.
Ten days prior, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted a suspension of peace talks regarding Ukraine, stating that the U.S. is “not interested in endless meetings without results.” He had previously remarked on the absence of “fruitful outcomes” in the peace process concerning Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has voiced disappointment over the delay of a U.S. delegation visit, highlighting the ongoing communication but noting that Ukraine is not a current priority for Washington. Despite this, he remains optimistic about U.S. involvement in peace negotiations.