Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky predicted that the period leading up to September 2026 will be particularly challenging for the country both politically and militarily. During a conversation with media representatives, the head of state noted that the possibility of holding a trilateral meeting involving Ukraine, the USA, and Russia is being considered in the coming months, provided that the Russian Federation demonstrates intentions for de-escalation.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Political Challenges and Expectations for Ukraine
Zelensky emphasized that key months for such negotiations may fall in April, May, or June, as during this time, he stated, political and diplomatic pressure on Ukraine will be palpable. He underscored that by September, the country will be significantly influenced by both external and internal factors. The president also drew attention to the upcoming electoral campaign in the USA, which, according to him, will serve as a sort of “domestic political deadline” for the American side around August, potentially affecting international support for Ukraine.
“So this time from spring to summer will be quite politically and diplomatically challenging. There may be pressure on Ukraine. And there will also be pressure on the battlefield. But we understand what Ukraine’s national interests are and what can guarantee security,” Zelensky said.
Negotiations with Russia and the Role of International Partners
The president stressed that it is extremely important for sufficient pressure to be maintained on Russia alongside the pressure on Ukraine. He expressed hope that Ukraine’s partners will be able to organize an unprecedented and pivotal NATO summit this year, the outcome of which will depend on their readiness to respond responsibly to global threats.
Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance, during a visit to Hungary, reported some progress in negotiations between Ukraine and the Russian Federation regarding the cessation of war, noting that the positions of the parties are gradually converging. According to him, previously the parties could not even clearly articulate their demands for ending the conflict, but now that stage has been passed, and negotiations are already underway regarding specific territories.
At the same time, Zelensky emphasized that the occupation of Donbas for Russia is not merely a territorial issue, but an attempt to create a foothold for further offensive actions. The president also clarified that previous rounds of trilateral negotiations were postponed due to escalations in the Middle East, but he does not believe that the dialogue has reached an impasse.
Additionally, Volodymyr Zelensky reported on constructive negotiations with representatives of U.S. President Donald Trump, which also involved Senator Lindsey Graham and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. As a result of the meeting, the parties agreed to maintain constant contact to strengthen the security guarantee document between Ukraine and the USA.