Zelensky to Putin – Peace Talks Possible Tomorrow if Russia Withdraws from Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine is ready to engage in peace talks “tomorrow” if Russia withdraws from all Ukrainian territories.
This declaration was made in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a peace summit in Switzerland, which concluded on Sunday, June 16, aiming to accelerate the end of the war in Ukraine.
The two-day summit, which saw participation from 90 countries including France, Germany, Britain, Japan, Poland, Argentina, and Kenya, reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
However, it fell short of uniting major non-aligned nations in isolating Russia. Despite the robust representation, including speeches from the Vatican and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, the absence of major players like China, India, and Saudi Arabia from signing the final statement highlighted the challenge of rallying global consensus.
Zelensky’s offer for immediate peace talks hinges on Russia’s complete withdrawal from Ukrainian lands.
This offer counters Putin’s recent proposal to cease hostilities and begin negotiations if Ukraine withdrew its troops from the regions annexed by Russia in 2022 and renounced its NATO aspirations. Zelensky dismissed Putin’s terms as an unacceptable ultimatum.
The summit provided Kyiv an opportunity to underscore the backing of Western allies, essential for its ongoing defense against Russia.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized that the summit, aptly named “Path to Peace,” was a step in the diplomatic process, not a final peace negotiation, citing Putin’s insistence on terms that would leave Ukraine vulnerable.
In the end, the conference highlighted both the global support for Ukraine and the complexities of achieving a united front against Russia.
Zelensky to Putin – Peace Talks Possible Tomorrow if Russia Withdraws from Ukraine
