Zelenskyy identifies window for peace ahead of critical US elections
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled a readiness to engage in direct negotiations with Vladimir Putin, identifying a strategic "window of opportunity" to conclude the war before the US elections in November.
In an interview with Sky News, Zelenskyy emphasized that Washington possesses the necessary leverage to end the conflict but must exert "real pressure" on the Kremlin. He specifically urged the Trump administration to intensify sanctions against the families of Russian leadership and expedite the delivery of advanced weaponry.
The Ukrainian leader stressed that the coming months are decisive, noting that the global political landscape following the US elections remains uncertain. "We have a chance now," Zelenskyy stated, suggesting that a resolution prior to the autumn vote is a primary strategic objective for Kyiv.
Regarding the definition of victory, Zelenskyy offered a pragmatic assessment of the current military stalemate. He acknowledged the extreme difficulty of reclaiming all occupied territories through military force alone due to the potential for catastrophic loss of life, noting that neither side is currently achieving a breakthrough.
However, Zelenskyy established a definitive "red line" regarding the fortified cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. He rejected any proposal of withdrawal, warning that abandoning these territories would subject 200,000 civilians to Russian occupation, imprisonment, or forced conscription.
Addressing his complex relationship with Donald Trump, Zelenskyy maintained that the partnership between the two nations transcends individual personalities. He remains focused on institutional stability and the continued recognition of Ukraine’s sovereign right to its territory.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
