Zelenskyy Presses Allies for Peace Terms Ahead of Putin Summit
UPDATE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is intensifying diplomatic efforts just hours before a crucial summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Zelenskyy met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Thursday to outline Ukraine’s key demands for peace negotiations amid Russia’s ongoing invasion, which began in February 2022.
In a series of discussions, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine will not enter peace talks without a prior ceasefire. He outlined five critical demands: negotiations must include Ukraine, any territorial concessions will be based on current front lines, solid security guarantees involving the U.S. are essential, and increased sanctions against Russia are necessary if the summit fails to yield results.
Zelenskyy has confirmed that Trump is on board with these negotiating terms. During a virtual meeting, Trump warned Putin of “very severe consequences” should Russia refuse to agree to a ceasefire. While he did not specify the nature of these consequences, Trump stated that they could involve sanctions or tariffs.
“It was a very friendly call,” Trump noted, hinting at the possibility of a subsequent summit involving Zelenskyy and Putin. Zelenskyy cautioned that Putin is “bluffing” about wanting peace, asserting, “He wants the occupation of our country.”
The urgency of this situation is underscored by ongoing military actions, with Ukraine’s air force reporting that Russia launched 45 drones and two missiles overnight. Ukrainian defenses managed to down or suppress 24 drones, while 21 drones struck multiple locations across Ukraine, highlighting the continuing threat to national security.
Zelenskyy reiterated the importance of an immediate ceasefire as the central topic for the Alaska meeting, adding that he expects to communicate with Trump afterward to assess outcomes. “We need further pressure for peace,” he stated, advocating for both American and European sanctions to ensure a successful resolution.
As the world watches closely, the outcome of this summit could significantly impact Ukraine’s path towards peace and security. The stakes are high, and developments are unfolding rapidly. Stay tuned for updates as this story progresses.
