Zelensky Urges Diplomatic Efforts to End War, Cautions Against Putin’s Intentions

TDT | Manama

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized that Ukraine must do everything possible to end the ongoing war through diplomatic means. In a wide-ranging interview with Suspilne broadcast on November 16, Zelensky shared his views on the war's trajectory and the potential for peace talks, while offering critical insights into Russian President Vladimir Putin’s true intentions.

Zelensky firmly stated that he does not believe Putin genuinely seeks peace but rather aims to use negotiations as a platform to reintegrate himself into the Western fold, from which he has been largely isolated since launching the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. "I don't think Putin wants peace at all. But this does not mean that he does not want to sit down with one of the leaders to negotiate," Zelensky explained.

The Ukrainian president’s remarks came after a phone call between Putin and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on November 15 – their first conversation in nearly two years. Zelensky expressed concern that such talks could open a "Pandora's Box," potentially undermining the unity of Western support for Ukraine.

Zelensky also emphasized that any serious negotiations would require Ukraine’s partnership with key international players, particularly the United States. "As president, I would only be able to negotiate seriously with the President of the United States," he remarked, referencing the upcoming U.S. presidential elections. "Donald Trump does not become president until January, but we will need that level of engagement to ensure meaningful diplomacy."

Crucially, Zelensky stated that Ukraine must not be left "alone" with Russia in any negotiation process. He believes that engaging in talks with Putin without a broader international coalition would place Ukraine in a "losing position." He further stressed that the United States could not take a neutral stance in the negotiations. "America must maintain the position that Russia is an aggressor, that it has violated our territorial integrity and international law," he stated.

Despite these concerns, Zelensky expressed the belief that the war could end more swiftly under a Trump administration. He argued that Trump’s approach could break the political isolation Russia has faced since the start of the war. "For him, it destroys the political isolation that has been built since the beginning of the war. And it benefits him to sit down, talk, and not reach an agreement," Zelensky suggested, acknowledging the complexities of Trump’s potential role in the peace process.

The interview underscores the growing urgency for Ukraine to explore diplomatic avenues while ensuring that the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remain non-negotiable. With the conflict showing no signs of ending, Zelensky's comments reveal the delicate balance between pursuing peace and standing firm against Russian aggression.