The Ukrainian president calls for strengthening of diplomatic efforts and international support for a peace plan after military gains on the front.
At a critical juncture in the war in Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky is bringing the discussion of a possible diplomatic way out back to the forefront, attempting to take advantage of both military developments on the battlefield and the continued support of Western allies. The Ukrainian president, following contacts with leaders of leading European countries, stressed the need to revive peace efforts, at a time when Kiev claims to have registered significant territorial gains and an enhanced defensive position. At the same time, Ukraine’s strategy seems to combine continued pressure on the front with the pursuit of a new diplomatic framework, in which both the United States and key European partners are expected to play a critical role.
Diplomatic efforts to end the Russian invasion of Ukraine should be revived, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said today after a teleconference with the leaders of Britain, France and Germany.
The Message
In a videotaped message, Zelensky said, among other things, that he expects proposals from the United States on the form of the next diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war.
He argued that the situation on the front lines is shaping up favorably for the Ukrainian armed forces. Since the beginning of the year, Kiev’s troops have liberated territories totaling 590 square kilometers, the Ukrainian president said.
“This, combined with sanctions of all kinds (against Moscow), is forcing Russia to turn to diplomacy,” claimed Zelensky, who briefed French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Kir Starmers and German Chancellor Friedrich Murch on the developments.
According to a British government statement, Zelensky briefed the leaders on “the progress the Ukrainian army has made in recent weeks as it continues to shield its defences against Putin’s ongoing attacks.” It also says the three leaders “confirmed that they will intensify their support (for Ukraine) in the coming months” and agreed that “countering Russian aggression remains vital for European and global security.”
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