Zelenskyy Stresses Ukraine’s Readiness for Peace Talks, Proposes Steps Toward Ceasefire

On March 4, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a statement on X, reaffirming Ukraine’s commitment to achieving peace.

Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to engage in negotiations aimed at bringing an end to the war, underscoring the urgency for a lasting resolution.

He stated, “Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians. My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump’s strong leadership to get a peace that lasts.”

Zelenskyy proposed an initial series of steps to facilitate the cessation of hostilities, including the release of prisoners and a ceasefire in the air.

This would involve a ban on the use of missiles, long-range drones, and attacks on energy infrastructure, alongside a ceasefire at sea, contingent upon reciprocal actions by Russia.

“The first stages could be the release of prisoners and truce in the sky — ban on missiles, long-ranged drones, bombs on energy and other civilian infrastructure — and truce in the sea immediately, if Russia will do the same. Then we want to move very fast through all next stages and to work with the U.S. to agree a strong final deal,” he explained.

Zelenskyy acknowledged the United States' significant support in helping Ukraine preserve its sovereignty. He highlighted that the turning point in this cooperation came when President Trump authorized the provision of Javelin missiles to Ukraine, an act for which Ukraine remains deeply grateful.

“We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. And we remember the moment when things changed when President Trump provided Ukraine with Javelins. We are grateful for this.”

The Ukrainian president also mentioned that a recent meeting at the White House did not go as planned, expressing regret over the situation. “Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is regrettable that it happened this way. It is time to make things right,” he said.

He added that Ukraine is committed to making amends and hopes that future engagements will be more constructive.

Regarding the potential agreement on minerals and security, Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine is ready to sign the agreement at any time and in any format that suits all parties.

He views this agreement as a critical step toward enhanced security and solid guarantees. “We see this agreement as a step toward greater security and solid security guarantees, and I truly hope it will work effectively,” he said.

Earlier, U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz stated that the United States is open to resuming negotiations on natural resources with Ukraine, but only if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expresses regret.