Ukraine is planning new talks with Russia: what is known about the format and location
20 May 00:41
Ukraine and its international partners are discussing the possibility of holding a new round of talks with Russia. Turkey, the Vatican, and Switzerland are being considered as potential venues. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a briefing, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
According to the head of state, consultations on the possible format and location of the meeting are already underway, including with US President Donald Trump and a number of European leaders.
Ukraine is considering holding a meeting with the participation of representatives of the United States, Ukraine, Russia, as well as France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany.
“We are considering the possibility, I think this is a positive thing in our conversation, we are considering in any case the possibility of a meeting, once again, a meeting of all the teams. We want to have a high-level meeting between America, Ukraine, Russia and representatives of those countries (France, Italy and Germany – ed.) that have been mentioned, yes, and also Britain,” Zelenskyy said.
Potential venues for negotiations
Three countries have been chosen as possible locations for the talks:
- Turkey, a country that previously mediated the talks.
- The Vatican is a platform that Zelenskyy considers particularly favorable.
- Switzerland is a neutral country with experience in organizing international meetings.
The President of Ukraine emphasized that the Vatican could play a key role.
“I really believe that Pope Leo can really help us. And this is a very important message that I heard from him during our bilateral meeting,” Zelenskyy said, emphasizing the effectiveness of this conversation.
Why the choice of location is important
Zelenskyy explained that Ukraine does not prefer any country, but focuses on the effectiveness of the upcoming meeting.
“We look at the result when the host country can organize the appropriate level of delegation presence,” he said.
For Ukraine, it is important that the venue provides the highest level of representation – from technical teams to leaders with decision-making authority.
“If it is technical teams, then the highest possible level of technical teams. If we are ready for a meeting of leaders, it means that we have real leaders who make decisions,” the President said.
The purpose of the talks
The main goal of the meeting is to find ways to reach a peaceful settlement.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine seeks to involve influential international players in the negotiations who can contribute to an effective dialogue. The participation of the United States and European countries should ensure the weight and effectiveness of the negotiation process.
