Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed concerns that the escalating aggression from Russia and the commission of war crimes by Russian forces, particularly against civilians, are diminishing the prospects for successful negotiations. In an interview with Ukrainian media, he emphasized that the stronger Ukraine becomes, the more favorable the outcomes of any negotiations will be.

Zelensky highlighted the atrocities committed in places like Bucha and Borodyanka, noting that such actions reduce the likelihood of negotiations taking place at all. He criticized the destruction in Mariupol, warning that it could end any negotiation formats, and labeled these actions as significant mistakes by Russia if they genuinely seek to end the war.

The President pointed out that while the world has witnessed the devastation in Bucha and Borodyanka, the full extent of the crimes in Mariupol remains unknown due to restricted access to the city. Despite these challenges, Zelensky believes negotiations are essential to protect the nation and end the conflict. He noted that Ukraine has consistently proposed meetings between the leaders of both countries during the war, but Russia insists on organizing such meetings only when all points are conclusively agreed upon.

Zelensky disagrees with this approach, advocating for preliminary preparations and agreements before meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but he believes final decisions should be made during the leaders’ negotiations. He expressed a desire for quicker meetings with Russia, acknowledging that multiple meetings might be necessary due to the complexity of the issues at hand, including the status of occupied territories like Donbas and Crimea.

He stressed the importance of discussing these topics to find a model that might not provide immediate answers but could lead to a sober understanding of the situation. Zelensky argued that diplomacy should follow the cessation of hostilities and military withdrawal, criticizing Russia’s attempt to resolve issues diplomatically while the war continues.

Furthermore, Zelensky mentioned that Russia aims to consolidate all agreements into a single document, but potential treaty participants are reluctant to sit at the same table with Russia. He noted that other countries differentiate between providing security guarantees to Ukraine and reaching agreements with Russia.

According to Zelensky, the outcome of negotiations to end the war could result in two separate documents: one detailing security guarantees from partner countries and another specific agreement with Russia.

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