This was discussed in an interview Zelensky Italian broadcaster Rai, informs portal PromPolitInform.
Readiness to meet with Putin and the issue of territories
Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was ready for a personal meeting with Vladimir Putin to find ways to end the war.
Nevertheless, the President clearly outlined the geographical boundaries of such a dialogue: the meeting cannot take place either in Moscow or in Kyiv, but “a place can be found anywhere” on neutral territory.
Referring to the topic of the status of the occupied Donbass, the head of state emphasized that Ukraine categorically cannot discuss the abandonment of its territories. The President explained that any territorial concessions will create critical military risks, as Russian troops will be able to quickly move inland, creating a direct threat to Kharkov and other strategically important economic centers. In addition, according to Zelensky, such decisions can cause an internal split in the Ukrainian society, which is one of the priority goals of the Kremlin.
Geopolitics and relations with the United States
Zelensky congratulated the United States on reaching a truce in Iran, as this will help in overcoming the global energy crisis. At the same time, he stated that due to Washington’s concentration in the Middle East, trilateral negotiations with Russia have been postponed. “But we will start again…,” the President assured, stressing the need for continuous supply of weapons for Ukraine.
The head of state expressed concern that the team of Donald Trump may not fully understand the real intentions of Russia. Zelensky said that Ukraine gave the United States evidence of cooperation between Moscow and Tehran in preparing attacks on targets in the Middle East. In particular, Russian military satellites recorded the coordinates of the energy systems of the Persian Gulf countries, Israel and American bases for further transmission of this data to Iran. According to the President, the United States ignored this evidence, continuing to trust Putin.
Security guarantees and sanctions pressure
Ukraine counts on the resumption of severe sanctions pressure from the United States, in particular in the oil sector.
“We know how much oil Russia sold after the imposition of sanctions. We hope that the United States will soon restore them,” the President said.
Speaking about future security guarantees, Zelensky stressed that they must include the presence of both Europe and the United States. This is necessary in order to prevent the repeated aggression of the Russian Federation in two to three years. As for the relationship with Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that he gets along with him, but remains frank in communication. He stressed the interdependence of countries: “We need the support of the United States, not just military. They also need us and our experience gained during these years of war.”
Separately, the President noted the role of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, calling her one of the most decisive leaders in Europe. Its support is important for unblocking assistance of about 90 billion euros and in communicating with the United States to increase pressure on Russia to reach a truce.
Elections and domestic politics
Answering the question about the possibility of holding elections, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that now it is impossible for two reasons. First, it directly contradicts Ukrainian legislation. Secondly, it is impossible to ensure the safety of voters and soldiers at the front.
“How can we do this during the shelling?” – summed up the President.
Finally, Zelensky added that Russia’s current aggression was inevitable: even if Ukraine had acted differently in the 90s or early 2000s, Putin would still have found a reason to attack.
Photo – OP
