Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of obstructing peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, which are mediated by the United States, in an effort to resolve the nearly four-year-long conflict. Zelenskyy made these remarks during a joint press conference in Kyiv following discussions with Czech President Petr Pavel.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy expressed confidence that Ukraine has the upper hand in the negotiations and emphasized productive collaboration with the US. However, he acknowledged differences with the US on certain issues, stating, "An ultimatum, in my view, is a non-working model in democratic relations between countries." Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine's commitment to ending the war, but accused Russia of "delaying all processes, starting with the humanitarian track."

Zelenskyy highlighted previous agreements for a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 individuals from each side, which have been stalled by Russia. While Moscow has yet to comment on Zelenskyy's statements, Russian media have reported that the Kremlin supports US President Donald Trump's accusations of Kyiv hindering peace talks.

During the press conference, Zelenskyy mentioned that Ukraine's negotiation team is actively engaging with Trump's representatives and that a delegation is en route to the US for further discussions. He expressed hope for greater clarity regarding prepared documents with the American side and Russia's response to ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Zelenskyy advocated for active collaboration among countries under NATO's Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List initiative, emphasizing the potential for significant results through practical cooperation. He also addressed the possibility of signing an economic deal for Ukraine's post-war recovery at the upcoming World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, contingent on finalizing materials and security guarantees with the US.

Czech President Pavel noted that Ukraine has agreed to a compromise peace plan and is prepared to make "a number of painful concessions" if it leads to a peace settlement. The WEF is scheduled to take place from January 19 to 23.