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Russia’s Negotiation Efforts Aimed at Avoiding Further Sanctions, Zelenskyy Says
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia is engaging in talks with Ukraine solely to avoid new, tougher sanctions.
He made the remarks in an interview with the German outlet Bild on June 12.
According to Zelenskyy, the Kremlin is attempting to create the appearance of a diplomatic process, particularly to influence the position of US President Donald Trump.
“It’s important for them to show Trump that there is a diplomatic bridge between Ukraine and Russia,” Zelenskyy explained.
The President emphasized that Vladimir Putin’s strategy is to maintain the illusion of dialogue as a means of blackmail: “We are talking to each other! If sanctions are imposed, there will be no more negotiations.”
Zelenskyy warned that Moscow’s true goal is not peace, but to buy time.
“Putin feels that his economy is under pressure,” he said. “But he wants to gain even more time before tough sanctions are introduced, because he can still hold out for a while.”
Earlier, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico had stated that Slovakia will not support the European Union’s 18th sanctions package against Russia unless the European Commission presents a concrete plan to ensure the country’s energy security.
The proposed package includes additional restrictions targeting Russia’s energy revenues, banking sector, and military-industrial complex.
