Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski stated on Tuesday that he anticipates discussions among Ukraine, Russia, and the United States to occur this month. This comes after emissaries from former President Donald Trump visited Moscow and Kiev to reignite talks that have been on hold for several months, according to reports from AFP and Reuters.
The US representatives, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, were in both Russia and Ukraine this past weekend. Both nations have announced a three-day halt in attacks on each other’s capitals.
However, shortly after the ceasefire, on Monday morning, Russia launched a new massive aerial assault, predominantly targeting Kiev.
Zelenski: Trump’s Emissaries Brought “Good Ideas”
Zelenski expressed optimism about organizing a trilateral meeting among Ukraine, Russia, and the US, saying, “We will all strive to prepare and facilitate the organization of this meeting. If all parties agree, we would like it to happen this fall, perhaps even as early as September. The sooner, the better,” he stated to the press.
According to Zelenski, the emissaries brought several “good ideas” for consideration in discussions aimed at ending the war.
The Ukrainian leader noted that the next trilateral meeting could be hosted by Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, or other countries. He expects the agenda to cover issues such as grain transportation and energy infrastructure.
“Substantial Progress” Made
Zelenski’s remarks follow American emissary Witkoff’s comments on Monday, indicating that his trips to Moscow and Kiev had led to “substantial progress” in organizing tripartite negotiations to resolve the conflict that began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
Witkoff mentioned on social media, “President Trump is making sustained efforts to stop the massacre and contribute to lasting peace.”
Zelenski also told Axios, published on Monday evening, that Vladimir Putin signaled to the emissaries he is willing to initiate negotiations aimed at a “de-escalation” this winter. This could involve both sides suspending attacks on strategic areas. Zelenski mentioned proposals related to energy, grains, electricity, as well as oil and gas.
Furthermore, Zelenski remarked that Putin “needs Trump” and does not want to risk upsetting him, especially ahead of the upcoming midterm elections in the United States this November.
