Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to inquiries about the proposed meeting involving Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump, and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The meeting is believed to be aimed at discussing the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Zelensky referenced comments made by Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, stating, “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” He expressed uncertainty about the tripartite meeting among the U.S., China, and Russia, but underscored that any discussions regarding Ukraine’s future must include Ukrainian participation. “This is quite obvious,” he remarked.
On October 20, Zelensky noted positive signals from the U.S. following a phone call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. “Here in Oslo, we also had a very constructive conversation. However, it is constructive among us—Ukraine, the U.S., and Europe—because we all seek peace. We will see what happens tomorrow,” he concluded.
Context
- According to a report from The Wall Street Journal on October 19, Putin aims to meet with Trump and Xi in November to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine on favorable terms for Moscow. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed discussions regarding the potential meeting, but noted that no agreement has been reached.
- Trump responded affirmatively when asked if he would meet with Putin and Xi without Zelensky in attendance.
- Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that such a meeting format would encourage Putin to continue the war. He believes that before any meeting, the non-legitimate Russian president should take significant steps towards peace, such as agreeing to a ceasefire.
