Zelensky to Russia: Stop killings before summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that his goals for a US-Russian summit on the war in his country are for Russia to stop killing Ukrainians and agree to a ceasefire. “The priorities are absolutely clear. First - an end to the killing, and it is Russia that must agree to a ceasefire,” Zelensky wrote on X.
Secondly, he said the summit with Russia’s Vladimir Putin initiated by US President Donald Trump must be designed “to lead to a truly lasting peace.” Ukraine has repeatedly stated that a resolution to the war is most likely to be found at a meeting of heads of state.
Thirdly, Zelensky emphasised the need for long-term Ukrainian security, which must be established together with the United States and Europe.
Trump’s plan involves first meeting Putin and then expanding it into a trilateral meeting with Zelensky. The Kremlin has confirmed preparations for a summit with Trump, which could take place in the coming days.
However, Putin’s foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, remained reserved about a meeting with Zelensky.
Zelensky said he will be speaking with numerous European partners by phone on Thursday, first naming German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, saying a call had already been scheduled.
He will also be “in contact with colleagues from France and Italy.” He also said that communication at the national security adviser level is to take place on Thursday.
“Ukraine has never wanted war and will work toward peace as productively as possible,” Zelensky wrote. “The main thing is for Russia, which started this war, to take real steps to end its aggression,” he said, adding that the world has leverage over Russia and can ensure that promises are being kept. — dpa