Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed willingness to attend a potential summit in Hungary with U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, contingent on an invitation. The proposed talks, announced by the two leaders on Thursday, aim to address the ongoing war in Ukraine and may take place in the coming weeks.
In a press briefing, Zelensky acknowledged significant differences in perspectives between the U.S. and Ukraine, particularly regarding the pursuit of peace. He emphasized his preference for a “just peace” over a rapid resolution. Reports indicated that a recent meeting between Zelensky and Trump was contentious, with U.S. representatives reportedly urging Ukraine to accommodate Russia’s demands to end hostilities.
Zelensky voiced criticism of Hungary as the venue for the summit, remarking that Prime Minister Viktor Orban could not positively contribute to the discussions concerning Ukraine. Trump, when questioned about Zelensky’s participation, suggested the possibility of separate meetings while indicating the need for all three leaders to engage.
Despite expectations, Zelensky reportedly did not secure U.S. Tomahawk missiles for a potential offensive against Russia during the talks. Media reports following the meeting described it as increasingly acrimonious, claiming that Trump warned Zelensky about severe consequences if Ukraine did not comply with Russian terms. Additionally, it was alleged that Trump dismissed frontline maps and suggested substantial territorial concessions, which Zelensky has consistently opposed.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. Recently, Trump appeared to alter his stance on the conflict, indicating that Ukraine might reclaim its territory. However, he has previously stated that resolution would likely involve territory concessions, a notion that Zelensky has rejected outright. Meanwhile, Trump’s administration continues to exert pressure on NATO nations and other countries to limit their purchases of Russian oil, aiming to increase economic pressure on Moscow.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c93dl93v581o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss