Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced apprehensions regarding the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on peace negotiations with Russia. Speaking during a visit to the United Kingdom, he noted that the U.S. has diverted its attention from Ukraine to the situation in Iran, which is causing delays in diplomatic discussions.
“I have very bad feelings about the influence this war will have on the situation in Ukraine. Unfortunately, the focus of America is more on the Middle East than on Ukraine,” Zelensky stated in an interview with the BBC. He emphasized that this shift has led to the postponement of trilateral meetings aimed at resolving the conflict.
Despite these challenges, Zelensky reassured that communication between negotiating parties continues daily. “President Trump is focused on Iran. Our negotiation groups are in contact every day. I know that Americans are also speaking with the Russians daily,” he added.
The Ukrainian leader further explained that the U.S. has offered to host talks between Ukraine and Russia on American soil due to the war in Iran. While Ukraine is open to this arrangement, Russia has firmly rejected the idea of meeting in the United States. “The American side has indicated readiness to host both parties in America. We confirmed our participation, but the Russians are against meeting in the United States. Therefore, we are trying to focus on America, proposing dates and locations. Ukraine will support any date and any place, but definitely not in Russia,” Zelensky stated.
When asked if President Trump’s actions have made the world more dangerous, Zelensky refrained from giving a definitive answer. “I try to speak objectively, not subjectively. Therefore, I believe that any division within NATO will weaken both sides,” he concluded.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has expressed concerns that the U.S. focus on the Middle East is delaying peace talks with Russia. He confirmed ongoing communication between negotiating parties but highlighted Russia's refusal to meet in the U.S.