“We Are Not a Salad or Compote for Putin,” Zelenskyy Asserts on Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that productive peace negotiations are impossible without Ukraine’s involvement. During an online press conference on March 18, following the Trump-Putin call, he stated that he does not want Ukraine to be treated as a mere “item on the menu” for Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

“I don’t want us to be on Putin’s ‘menu,’” Zelenskyy said. “We are not a salad or a compote for this man, despite his appetites. We are an independent state. Therefore, it is wrong to make decisions about us without us, as the outcome would not be beneficial for anyone.”

In addition, Zelenskyy responded to Russian leader Putin’s recent ultimatum regarding military aid and mobilization. He explained that Putin is using sensitive topics like mobilization to weaken Ukraine’s military strength.

“Putin is raising a sensitive issue about mobilization. What’s behind that? It’s about weakening the Ukrainian army. The issue is not about mobilization itself, it’s about reducing the size of our army. This ultimatum has been part of his approach since the beginning of the war, and while the wording changes, the core objective remains the same,” Zelenskyy said.

Zelenskyy also addressed the Kremlin’s focus on halting military support and intelligence-sharing, saying it is a strategy to weaken Ukraine’s defenses.

“Putin is trying to diminish Ukraine’s military power by targeting areas like arms supply and intelligence. He believes these steps could be successful in further weakening us,” Zelenskyy added.

He also remained confident that Ukraine’s international partners would not agree to cut off support as part of any peace agreement.

“Serious partners will not accept cutting off assistance as part of any peace process,” Zelenskyy affirmed. “They understand that this would weaken Ukraine’s position. We are in constant communication, and I am confident there will be no betrayal from our partners. The aid will continue.”

On March 18, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. They emphasized the urgent need to end the war, with discussions focused on a ceasefire and diplomatic efforts.