Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his evening video address on May 20, expressed hope for an early resumption of peace talks with Russia. As Ukrainska Pravda reports, he referred to “good contacts” between his team and the US side, both on security issues and in diplomacy toward Russia.
“If we manage to return to substantial trilateral communication in these weeks, and if we manage to involve the Europeans, that would be a proper result,” Zelenskyy said. He stressed that Ukraine is ready for such steps. “I expect that the partners will also be ready and that the Russians will not hide,” the president added.
Trilateral talks between Ukraine, the US, and Russia had effectively stalled after the US-Israeli war against Iran began in late February. Nevertheless, both Kyiv and Moscow maintained bilateral contacts with Washington.
In parallel, EU foreign ministers at a meeting on Cyprus next week plan to discuss potential candidates for the role of mediator with Russia in the peace process for Ukraine. This could pave the way for stronger European involvement in the negotiations.
Zelenskyy’s remarks come at a time when the military situation on the front remains tense. Russian troops continue their war of aggression against Ukraine unabated, particularly in the east of the country. The prospect of a diplomatic solution therefore remains fraught with considerable uncertainty.
Source: www.pravda.com.ua
