Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emphasized his readiness to engage in direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, provided that this be "the only format that could bring peace to the citizens of Ukraine and prevent loss of life."
In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Zelenskyy stated, "If that is the only way we can achieve peace and save our citizens from loss of life, we would definitely accept it."
He later mentioned that any such talks would involve four parties. In an earlier interview over the weekend, he stated that he "would like to see the United States of America, Ukraine, and the Russians at the negotiating table... And, to be honest, a European Union voice should also be there."
Such a conversation could only take place after a contact between the two leaders.
Referring to Vladimir Putin, Zelenskyy said, "I will not be kind to him, I consider him an enemy. Honestly, I believe he also considers me his enemy."
In a recent interview on Tuesday, the Ukrainian president acknowledged that his country is likely to relinquish some of the territory that Russia has occupied since its invasion commenced in February 2022.
In a scathing rebuke of Ukraine's supporters in the war, President Zelenskyy expressed discontent by saying, "Unfortunately, the backing provided by our allies is insufficient to completely drive Putin out of our territories."
Despite the ongoing conflict, membership in NATO offers Ukraine its optimal opportunity to stabilize the situation and provide long-standing defense guarantees for the country.
During an interview, Zelenskyy estimated the total number of Ukraine's war casualties to be approximately 45,100 dead and 390,000 injured. He also stated that Russia had sustained around 350,000 fatalities and 700,000 wounded.
US President Donald Trump, whose future actions will be crucial in determining the outcome of the war, stated during a press conference on Monday that the US is "in contact with the Russians, we're in contact with the Ukrainian leadership." He did not provide further information.
Last week, Putin stated that Russia would be "open" to peace talks, but instead blamed others for not making an effort to resolve legal issues. He also referred to Zelenskyy as "not legitimate" to lead any potential talks, and stated that he himself would not engage in direct conversation with Zelenskyy, opting to instead send suitable representatives to participate in negotiations.
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