Zelensky Names Countries Ready to Facilitate Negotiations with Russia to End the War
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that several countries have expressed their willingness to serve as platforms for potential diplomatic talks with Russia in the quest for peace.
The president shared that he received a report from Defense Minister Rustem Umerov following his diplomatic visits to Turkey, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Additionally, cooperation with Swiss officials continues, with each of these nations prepared to provide a venue for negotiations, for which Zelensky expressed his gratitude.
He also highlighted the anticipation of a report from Office of the President Head Andriy Yermak after recent meetings in the United States.
In the coming days, Ukrainian diplomats plan to organize negotiations within the European Union.
Zelensky also stressed the consequences of recent Russian night attacks, which involved mass missile and drone strikes across multiple regions of Ukraine, from Kharkiv to Lutsk.
Regions affected include Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Zaporizhzhia, where under fire, 29 people were wounded—including three children—and one person was killed.
Zelensky reported that Russian forces used over 500 drones and 45 missiles, of which Ukrainian air defenses managed to destroy most — six ballistic and 32 cruise missiles, along with 510 drones, mostly “Shahed.” He emphasized that this is the second such large-scale attack within a week, demonstrating Moscow’s determination to continue the war without serious international pressure.
The president also discussed the situation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who supported the idea of an immediate ceasefire as a sign of Russia’s readiness for genuine diplomacy.
Zelensky noted that Ukraine is preparing for meetings in Europe this week and is committed to ensuring a strong response to Russia’s actions.
Previously, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the scheduled meeting between the presidents of Russia and Ukraine will not take place, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic complexities.