In a strong statement, Zelensky claimed that Russia is "doing everything it can" to prevent a meeting aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. The remarks came against the backdrop of attempts by US President Donald Trump to mediate a summit between the two leaders. Trump remarked on the tensions, likening the relationship between Putin and Zelensky to "oil and vinegar" that simply doesn't mix.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov countered by stating that Putin is open to discussions with Zelensky "when the agenda is ready," asserting that Zelensky consistently declines proposals. Following an intense week of diplomatic efforts, including Trump's conversation with Putin and a meeting with Zelensky and European leaders, the situation remains delicate, with Trump describing the conflict as one of his most challenging diplomatic tests.
Zelensky expressed support for a potential summit but emphasized that any agreement must include solid security guarantees from Western allies to deter future Russian aggression. He declared, "Ukraine, unlike Russia, is not afraid of any meetings between leaders." During a concurrent visit to Kyiv, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated that the alliance is seeking to "break the deadlock," with ongoing discussions about robust security commitments that would prevent Putin from attacking Ukraine again.
The urgency for these guarantees is heightened by the historical failures of previous agreements, such as the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, where obligations concerning Ukraine's security were ignored. "This is the beginning of a big undertaking, and it is not easy," Zelensky remarked, stressing the need for Western cooperation in fortifying Ukraine's military capabilities.
However, Russian accusations of Ukraine's inflexibility in negotiations suggest a looming stalemate, with Lavrov arguing that Moscow is willing to compromise but requires reciprocal acceptance from Ukraine. Meanwhile, the EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas labeled Russia's demands for territorial concessions as a "trap," underscoring the persistent challenges in reaching a peaceful resolution.
Amid these diplomatic struggles, Russia has intensified its military actions, launching one of its most significant assault waves recently, targeting Ukraine with drones and missiles.
Simultaneously, Ukrainian military efforts have retaliated; a drone attack on a Russian oil facility disrupted oil supply routes critical to Hungary and Slovakia. This ongoing conflict strains relations and complicates the logistical operations of the EU, which aims to distance itself from Russian energy supplies by 2027.
In response to the escalating crisis, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has reached out to Trump, expressing despair over the situation and relying on Trump’s support. The Ukrainian political landscape remains uncertain as Zelensky contemplates the outcomes of yet another round of diplomatic negotiations.
