Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the strengthening of Ukrainian forces compared to previous years, which he mentioned in his evening address on May 22. According to him, since the beginning of the year, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have managed to liberate 590 kilometers of territory that is now under Ukrainian control.
This is reported by Kyiv24
“Since the beginning of the year, 590 kilometers of our territory have been liberated and are under control. The trend is definitely not in the occupier’s interest; we continue to increase the indicators of Russian personnel destruction – this, along with sanctions of all forms, forces Russia to choose diplomacy.”
Contacts with Western Leaders and Expectations from the US
Zelensky noted that he informed UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz about the current military-political situation. The President of Ukraine emphasized that he shared detailed information from Ukrainian intelligence regarding Russia’s plans – both military and political.
He stressed the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to achieve results in negotiations. Zelensky is awaiting a response from the US regarding possible formats and timing for future meetings. According to him, news about the “readiness of the Americans” may emerge by the end of the current week.
US Position on Negotiations with Russia
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that currently, negotiations between Ukraine and Russia mediated by the United States are not taking place and have not been productive. However, Washington expresses its readiness to return to dialogue if an opportunity for constructive negotiations arises.
It is worth noting that against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, trilateral negotiations between Ukraine, the US, and Russia, which took place in January and February, have been postponed indefinitely.