Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed optimism regarding the potential resumption of negotiations aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict with Russia. During a joint press conference with Honduran President Nasry Asfura in Kyiv on June 19, Zelensky noted that the format of any future diplomatic discussions remains unclear.
“I believe that rounds of negotiations will resume. The question is in what format. Europeans see their track. They support a joint track involving both Americans and Europeans. Everyone also supports the track we proposed last. I believe in bilateral negotiations, but partners must be involved,” said the president.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine has several expectations from these discussions, particularly concerning security guarantees following the war and aspirations for European Union membership.
He also mentioned that the Russian leadership has been given the opportunity to determine the format of the negotiations.
Recent Developments in Peace Talks
On June 4, Zelensky published an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, proposing a meeting to “end the war.” Putin responded by stating that he does not currently see a reason for a meeting with the Ukrainian leader. Previously, the Kremlin chief indicated that any meeting with Zelensky should be “final” and intended for signing a treaty rather than discussing the conditions for ending the conflict initiated by Russia.
Earlier, reports indicated that special representatives of U.S. President Donald Trump, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are expected to visit Ukraine around the spring-summer transition. Both are part of the American delegation acting as intermediaries in negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow to explore pathways to conclude the war.
On May 22, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Washington’s readiness to continue serving as a mediator in talks between Kyiv and Moscow, contingent on the emergence of a “constructive and productive” dialogue.
On June 15, President Trump, during a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, indicated that after discussions with both Zelensky and Putin, he sees potential for intensifying efforts to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has indicated a willingness to resume peace talks with Russia, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach involving international partners. Recent communications between leaders suggest ongoing efforts to explore diplomatic solutions to the conflict.