Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asserted that Russia is hesitant about engaging in direct negotiations, as he signals his willingness to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the Vatican during the funeral of Pope Francis.
According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy made these remarks during a press briefing, emphasizing Ukraine's openness to negotiations contingent on a full ceasefire.
Zelenskyy indicated that Russia might be apprehensive about the potential withdrawal of American participation in the negotiation process. He underscored Ukraine's readiness for any negotiation format with Russia, provided there is a mutual understanding of the terms. The Ukrainian leader highlighted ongoing discussions among defense ministers and senior officials from Ukraine, the U.S., the UK, and France, with upcoming ceasefire talks scheduled in London.
On the issue of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), currently under Russian control, Zelenskyy stressed the necessity of Ukrainian technical staff for its operation. He acknowledged the importance of U.S. support but clarified that it would not suffice without Ukraine's involvement. Zelenskyy welcomed the idea of partnering with the U.S. for infrastructure restoration projects, such as the ZNPP and the missile-damaged Motor Sich facility in Zaporizhzhia, while emphasizing the need for a mutual commitment.
Addressing rumors of U.S. involvement in the management of the ZNPP, Zelenskyy stated that he had not received any official proposals. He warned of the strategic loss that would result from the U.S. disengagement from the peace process, highlighting the significance of American aid, intelligence, and ballistic insights. Zelenskyy confirmed his plans to attend Pope Francis's funeral in Rome, where he is open to meeting President Trump.
In a reaffirmation of Ukraine's stance, Zelenskyy declared that Kyiv will not recognize Russian control of Crimea, aligning with Ukraine's Constitution. He reiterated that Russia lacks the authority to veto Ukraine's NATO membership aspirations, questioning the rationale behind abandoning such a security guarantee.
Zelenskyy also raised concerns regarding China's possible indirect role in Russian drone production. He disclosed that Ukraine's Security Service has been tasked with informing Beijing about Chinese nationals potentially involved in a Russian drone factory, suggesting that Russian acquisition of Chinese drone technology may have occurred without official consent. Ukraine plans to brief China on potential arms transfers to Moscow through diplomatic channels, though no direct communication between the two nations' leaders has taken place. Chinese officials have yet to respond to these statements.