The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, sent an open letter to the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, in which he initiated the appointment of a “clear date for a meeting” to resolve the war.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Ukraine’s proposals for negotiations and ceasefire
In his address, Zelensky emphasized the necessity of determining a date for a direct meeting with the leader of the Russian Federation. The President pointed out that attempts to resolve the Ukrainian issue outside the region, particularly during negotiations in Anchorage, do not affect the real processes in Ukraine and Europe.
“I propose to set a clear date for a meeting. We heard that you were promised in Alaska to resolve some issues concerning Ukraine and Europe. But you see that Ukrainian and European issues are not being resolved in Anchorage.”
The President stressed that other participants, including European countries and the USA, can join the already initiated intergovernmental dialogue. According to Zelensky, the current front line should serve as a starting point for diplomatic efforts. Ukraine is ready to ensure a complete ceasefire during the negotiations.
Zelensky noted that this aligns with international practice, particularly the example of a temporary truce regarding the situation in Iran. He emphasized the readiness for a real cessation of hostilities and the possibility of involving the USA to monitor compliance with the ceasefire regime along the line of demarcation.
Prisoner exchange and return of civilians
In his letter, Zelensky paid special attention to the issue of exchanging prisoners of war on the principle of “all for all” and the return of civilians and children forcibly taken during the war. The President emphasized that only the political will of the Russian leadership can stop the hostilities, and Ukraine is ready to fight for its existence as long as necessary.
The letter also contains a warning that the history of Russia shows: changes occur when society grows tired of war, and Ukraine has the resources for such influence. Zelensky noted that only Putin’s personal decision can end the war.
Earlier, Vladimir Putin stated that Russia is ready for a political settlement based on agreements discussed with former US President Donald Trump in Anchorage. He emphasized that a truce is possible on the condition of compromises from Kyiv, and control over Donbas does not contradict the conclusion of an agreement.
On May 7, Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov stated that Moscow sees no sense in a new round of trilateral negotiations involving the USA, Ukraine, and Russia, as long as Kyiv does not withdraw its troops from Donbas. At the same time, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope on May 14 for the resumption of peace talks and Washington’s readiness to remain a mediator in this process. The negotiations are currently on pause following events at the end of February related to US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Ukraine categorically refuses to comply with the demand to transfer all of Donbas under Russian control.