Zelensky announces date for new US-Ukrainian talks to end the war
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Thursday the start of a new and crucial round of diplomatic talks between Kyiv and Washington, scheduled for Friday and Saturday in the United States. This move comes as part of intensified efforts to reach a compromise aimed at ending the ongoing war with Russia, which has cast a shadow over the global landscape.
In a press statement, Zelensky confirmed that the Ukrainian delegation was already en route to the United States, where the American side was awaiting their arrival to begin discussions. The Ukrainian president indicated the possibility of expanding participation to include European parties, saying, “Our delegation will be in the United States on Friday and Saturday… I don’t know who else might be there; perhaps there will be a number of Europeans,” reflecting a desire to garner broader international support for the settlement process.
The Russian position and Putin's insistence
On the other hand, coinciding with the Ukrainian announcement, Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated his commitment to achieving his country's objectives in full. During a meeting with senior Defense Ministry officials in Moscow, Putin emphasized that Russia would undoubtedly achieve the goals of its "special military operation," whether through diplomatic channels or military force.
Putin explained that Russia’s objectives include effective control over the territories that Moscow considers to be its own, noting his preference for “eradicating the main causes of the conflict through diplomatic means,” but leaving the door open to all options to ensure Russia’s security and strategic interests.
Background of the conflict and diplomatic efforts
These talks are of paramount importance given the timing of the conflict, which erupted in February 2022, triggering the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. Over the years, numerous rounds of negotiations have stalled due to the divergent demands of the two sides; Kyiv insists on the full restoration of its territory and sovereignty, while Moscow maintains its position of recognizing the new geopolitical reality and the annexed territories.
Expected regional and international impacts
The importance of these talks extends far beyond the domestic affairs of the two warring nations, encompassing far-reaching international repercussions. Global markets, particularly the energy and grain sectors, are watching the outcome of these negotiations with great apprehension, as the war has led to significant disruptions in global supply chains and soaring inflation.
Moreover, the American role in these talks is pivotal, as Washington is Ukraine's largest military and financial backer. Through this round of negotiations, the White House seeks to explore prospects for a political solution that guarantees Ukraine's independence and prevents the conflict from spreading to other NATO countries, making the outcome of Friday and Saturday's meetings a crucial indicator for the future of security and stability in Europe.
