Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is pushing for direct diplomacy next week. He plans meetings in Washington and Europe to strengthen peace efforts amid relentless Russian attacks.
Zelenskyy announced on Friday that Ukrainian officials “want to meet with President Donald Trump and European leaders next week to discuss recent developments in efforts to end the three‑year war with Russia.” He intends to inject new momentum into stalled diplomatic talks and build momentum for meaningful agreements.
He voiced frustration with Russia’s refusal to engage constructively, even as it launches devastating aerial strikes on civilians. Recent attacks killed at least 23 people in Kyiv, including four children, and left scores wounded. Kyiv declared a day of mourning and suspended local entertainment.
Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine’s presidential office, met with Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff in New York to coordinate, saying the priority “is to push forward real diplomacy and ensure the implementation of all the agreements reached at the Washington summit.” Yermak also noted that Russia continues to drag out hostilities despite American efforts, and he expressed appreciation for Trump’s firm resolve.
Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine accepts a U.S. proposal for a ceasefire and for a summit with Putin. He criticized Russia’s “artificial” insistence on expert‑level groundwork before involving leaders, calling for immediate direct talks.
He demanded swift sanctions on nations aiding Russia’s war effort and stressed that future security guarantees must include a reliable weapons supply—either U.S.‑made arms paid for by Europe or those produced domestically.
