In brief
Volodymyr Zelensky urges Russia to halt its harsh demands as peace talks loom, emphasizing that Ukraine's sovereignty remains non-negotiable.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with U.S. officials for peace talks in Saudi Arabia next Monday, coinciding with concurrent U.S.-Russia discussions. Zelensky criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for making "unnecessary demands" that only prolong the conflict, specifically the complete cessation of military aid to Ukraine. He asserted that conceding NATO membership for Ukraine, a key point for Putin, would be a "big gift to Russia." He also dismissed claims that he discussed transferring ownership of Ukraine's nuclear power plants during a call with former President Donald Trump, stressing that these assets "belong to the people of Ukraine." Zelensky made it clear that he wouldn't consider any territorial concessions, reaffirming that Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, remains an integral part of Ukraine.As military tensions escalate, both leaders have expressed support for a potential ceasefire, though conflicting conditions have hindered progress. Recent strikes continued on both sides, endangering civilians. In calls to EU leaders, Zelensky reiterated the necessity for ongoing military support, requesting at least €5 billion for artillery supplies to bolster Ukraine’s defenses.Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that any peace agreement would require strong security arrangements to ensure compliance, reflecting the urgent need for effective planning even before a deal is reached. As the war drags on, the stakes for all parties involved continue to rise.
