Zelenskyy: US-Russia Talks Without Ukraine Are Dangerous for All

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that any negotiations between the United States and Russia on ending the war that do not include Ukraine would be “very dangerous for everyone.” He emphasized that Kyiv and Washington must continue discussions to develop a plan for a ceasefire.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Zelenskyy stated that Russia is unwilling to engage in negotiations aimed at ending hostilities, as the Kremlin perceives any such discussions as a sign of weakness while its forces maintain a battlefield advantage.

The Ukrainian President also addressed recent remarks by former US President Donald Trump, who claimed that American and Russian officials had already engaged in “very serious” discussions about ending the war. Trump did not specify the details of these talks. Zelenskyy stressed that while the US and Russia may have their own relations, excluding Ukraine from conversations about the war would pose significant risks.

According to Zelenskyy, his administration remains in contact with the new US administration, though discussions have so far taken place at a general level. He underlined the importance of holding direct meetings to work out specific agreements, adding that European leaders share the view that such discussions are necessary.

Zelenskyy expressed confidence that Trump could pressure Russian leader Vladimir Putin into negotiations by threatening sanctions on Russia’s energy and banking sectors while continuing to support Ukraine’s defense efforts. He described these measures as “the fastest and most important steps” toward a resolution.

Zelenskyy also emphasized that securing strong international guarantees for Ukraine is crucial, highlighting that such measures would serve as a cost-effective security solution.

“I really believe that these are the cheapest security guarantees that Ukraine can get, the cheapest for everyone,” he said.

He further stressed that decisions on NATO membership should not be dictated by Russia but determined by the United States and its allies.

“It will be a signal that it is not for Russia to decide who should be in NATO and who should not, but for the United States of America to decide. I think this is a great victory for Trump,” he added.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russian leader Vladimir Putin of deliberately prolonging the war and avoiding peace negotiations. In a statement on X on January 28, he said Putin fears strong leaders and aims to make the war “endless.” His remarks followed Putin’s televised comments dismissing negotiations with Zelenskyy, claiming he is “illegitimate” and cannot sign agreements—an assertion widely rejected by Ukrainian legal experts.