Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on March 19 that the United States has expressed readiness to resume negotiations aimed at ending the conflict with Russia. In a televised address, he emphasized the need to conclude the pause in talks, stating, “The negotiation pause was in place, and it’s time to end it. We are doing everything to ensure the discussions are substantial.”
Zelensky revealed that the Ukrainian political delegation is en route to the United States for a meeting scheduled for Saturday. He discussed the upcoming negotiations with key members of his team, including National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, Presidential Office Head Kyrylo Budanov, and Servant of the People faction leader Davyd Arakhamia. He noted, “Sergiy Kyslytsya will also participate in the meetings. Our priority is to do everything possible for a dignified peace. I thank everyone who is assisting with this effort.”
Additionally, Zelensky mentioned potential security agreements with Gulf countries, indicating that Umerov has been in key regional capitals over the past week to report on the outcomes of those discussions. “Tomorrow there will be a more detailed online report. There is an understanding of what new security agreements could be established with countries in this region. There are specific ways they can support us, particularly in air defense,” he explained. He added that Ukrainian expert groups are already in those countries to assist in defending against threats, with daily reports on their activities.
In January and February, several trilateral meetings involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia were held to discuss the war’s resolution. While specific outcomes were not disclosed, a significant agreement was reached on February 5 regarding the exchange of prisoners of war, marking the first such agreement in five months. A subsequent meeting planned for early March in Abu Dhabi was postponed indefinitely due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has announced a renewed commitment to negotiations with the U.S. to end the conflict with Russia, with a meeting scheduled for this weekend. Discussions are also underway for potential security agreements with Gulf nations, highlighting Ukraine's ongoing diplomatic efforts amid the war.