Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has indicated that fresh peace talks with Russia could take place as early as November 10, potentially led by a U.S. team in Abu Dhabi. This would mark the first face-to-face negotiations since the American president lifted sanctions on Moscow.
Speaking about the timing, Zelensky stated that the meeting, initially planned for late November, could occur sooner. Kyiv had proposed talks for the upcoming Sunday but will await the outcome of the U.S. midterm elections.
Zelensky expressed optimism for progress and readiness to discuss sensitive issues to maintain momentum in the negotiations. However, he urged the U.S. president to change his approach towards Vladimir Putin, stating that Washington must recognize Russia as the aggressor. "If the United States, our strong partner, understands that Putin's goal is to occupy us and to destroy us, they can't be on Putin's side," Zelensky said.
Despite the potential for talks, prospects for a significant breakthrough appear uncertain amid strained relations between Washington and Kyiv. Zelensky accused the U.S. of postponing planned talks in Brussels at the last minute, citing a need to focus on developments in the Middle East. He acknowledged the U.S. willingness to organize a trilateral meeting but cautioned that prioritizing the Middle East could delay efforts to end the war.
The Ukrainian president emphasized that securing a ceasefire requires sustained pressure, regular meetings, and decisive actions, rather than interruptions in the diplomatic process. He also addressed criticism from the U.S. president, stating he accepts the right to express views but will respond to comments concerning Ukraine due to his duty to defend his country.
Zelensky noted that the constant pressure on Ukraine, including shortages of anti-ballistic missiles and ongoing attacks, leaves little room for discreet diplomacy. He stated the necessity of speaking openly to ensure urgent problems are recognized and resolved. "There's a lot of pressure on Ukraine at this moment, of course, and I have to be louder and I will be," he said.
He revealed he had not spoken directly to the U.S. president since remarks last week suggesting Russia had been behaving acceptably towards Ukraine. This statement followed a drone strike in Kharkiv that killed a one-year-old child and her mother.
Zelensky contrasted the U.S. president's stated desire to end the war with a warm approach toward Putin, insisting that Washington must maintain its focus for negotiations to yield results.