Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced plans to establish bilateral agreements with European partners regarding defense cooperation, while also preparing for significant negotiations. He emphasized that specific details would not be disclosed publicly at this time.
This announcement was made via Telegram on May 30, following a special meeting with key officials, including Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov, Head of the President’s Office Kyrylo Budanov, and First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Denys Shmyhal.
“I am in contact almost daily with representatives of the U.S. President and European partners. We have noted the current situation regarding air defense supplies and our overall agreements. We have identified priorities for the coming weeks: anti-ballistic measures, bilateral documents concerning the production and supply of drones, including the Drone Deal with the European Union, and the preparation of meetings in several formats. We are getting ready for important negotiations—currently without public details,” Zelensky stated.
Zelensky also instructed relevant parties to reach out to partners who could facilitate necessary mediation for prisoner exchanges, an arrangement agreed upon by both Ukrainian and Russian sides earlier in May.
Additionally, the President announced forthcoming “new solutions” to support Ukraine, particularly in the energy sector, noting that details are currently being finalized.
On May 8, Zelensky mentioned that U.S. Special Representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to visit Ukraine around the transition from spring to summer. Both are part of the American delegation acting as mediators in negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow aimed at finding pathways to end the ongoing conflict.
On May 20, the Kremlin indicated that Witkoff and Kushner are scheduled to visit Moscow, although the purpose of their trip and the exact date have not been disclosed.
On May 22, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Washington’s willingness to continue acting as a mediator in talks between Kyiv and Moscow, provided there is an opportunity for a “constructive and productive” dialogue.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has outlined plans for new defense agreements with European partners and preparations for significant negotiations, while refraining from disclosing specific details. He also emphasized ongoing efforts to facilitate prisoner exchanges and announced forthcoming support measures in the energy sector.