Asger Risom
Kyiv signals openness to historic negotiations as pressure mounts from Washington and continued Russian offensives
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Tuesday that Ukraine is prepared to engage in direct negotiations with Russia—its first such offer since 2022—but only after a ceasefire is in place.
The statement marks a significant shift in Kyiv’s posture, as diplomatic channels intensify ahead of a new round of international talks in London.
“After a ceasefire, we are ready to sit down in any format,” Zelensky said during a press conference in Kyiv, as reported by Digi24.
His remarks came one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin also floated the idea of restarting negotiations, limited to halting attacks on civilian infrastructure.
International Pressure Mounts
The latest developments come amid growing impatience in Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump, who has advocated for a swift resolution to the war, has sent envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow—his fourth visit since February.
Trump has suggested a deal could be struck “this week,” though details remain vague.
Zelensky, who will attend Pope Francis’ funeral in Vatican City this weekend, said he is “ready” to meet with Trump in person.
Their last meeting in February was reportedly tense, raising concerns about future American support.
For now, Zelensky noted, Ukraine is only receiving assistance approved under President Joe Biden, and has yet to receive a response to its request for 10 additional PATRIOT air defense systems.
Kremlin Caution and Unrealistic Demands
Despite tentative talk of peace, the Kremlin continues to set uncompromising conditions: Ukraine must renounce NATO membership and accept the loss of five occupied regions—terms Kyiv firmly rejects.
Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, emphasized that peace is “a complex subject” and that Moscow prefers a slower, more calculated process.
On the battlefield, Russia maintains a slow advance in eastern Ukraine, capturing the village of Sukha Balka and continuing strikes on cities like Mirnograd, where shelling killed one and injured three on Tuesday.
For now, Zelensky’s offer signals a willingness to de-escalate—but whether Moscow reciprocates with genuine intent remains uncertain.