Zelenskyy Says Russia is ‘afraid of direct negotiations’
(MENAFN) Ukrainian Leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Tuesday that Russia appears to be “afraid of direct negotiations,” expressing this view during a press event covered by the media.
He also confirmed his willingness to engage with United States Leader Donald Trump at the Vatican, where both leaders plan to attend the funeral of Pope Francis.
During his remarks to the media, Zelenskyy suggested possible motivations behind Russia's reluctance, saying: “Maybe they (Russians) are afraid that the Americans will leave the negotiation format, or maybe they are doing it to push them out.”
This comment hints at possible strategic maneuvering by Moscow to isolate or influence the role of the United States in the ongoing diplomatic processes.
Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine remains open to dialogue but insists it must follow a complete cessation of hostilities. He stated: “With an understanding of the term, we are ready for any format of negotiations with them. Any.”
This underscores Ukraine’s condition that meaningful conversations can only commence once fighting halts entirely.
He also referenced continued engagement among defense leaders and top officials from Ukraine and key allies such as the United States, United Kingdom, and France.
These discussions include scheduled talks focused on achieving a ceasefire, set to take place in London.
Addressing the situation at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), Zelenskyy declared that the facility’s operations are impossible without the involvement of Ukrainian engineers.
“Without Ukraine, it will not work,” he asserted, emphasizing that even strong backing from the United States would not suffice to ensure the plant’s functionality.
Zelenskyy welcomed collaboration with the US on rebuilding infrastructure damaged by conflict, including the ZNPP and the Motor Sich facility in Zaporizhzhia, which suffered a missile attack.
However, he stressed that a genuine alliance demands shared responsibility and commitment: “We and America are not afraid to enter into a partnership, but a partnership is a partnership.”
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