Zelensky warns of being sidelined in Trump-Putin peace talks
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed concerns in "The Economist" about Kyiv potentially being sidelined in discussions between the U.S. and Russia aimed at ending the war. He explains what he means by "plan B" if the West blocks Ukraine from joining NATO.
President Zelensky is worried that Ukraine may be excluded from U.S.-Russian talks, which aim to establish a ceasefire and end the conflict in Ukraine. In an interview with "The Economist," Zelensky emphasized that a conversation between Trump and Putin regarding this matter, without informing Kyiv of the details, poses a significant risk.
Trump talks with Putin about peace: Zelensky's concerns
Zelensky insisted that Ukraine is prepared for negotiations, but only with security guarantees to prevent further Russian aggression. The Ukrainian leader stressed that history shows mere discussions and a potential ceasefire are insufficient.
Zelensky fears that Putin aims for the Russians to negotiate peace exclusively with the Americans. In his view, the current Trump administration would be "misled" by the Russians. "If Russia is left alone with America, Putin with Trump, or their teams, they will receive manipulative information from the Russians," Zelensky commented. He noted that he learns about any new developments from the media and that he has spoken with Trump "a few times over the phone" since September of last year.
NATO not for Ukraine? Zelensky: It must build it itself
The President of Ukraine pointed out that some countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Hungary, seem reluctant to provide Kyiv with the needed support. In an interview with the newspaper, Zelensky mentioned that he perceives Western resistance to Ukraine joining NATO. He stated that if access remains blocked, Ukraine must establish its own equivalent of NATO within its borders. This would require doubling the size of its army to match the strength of Russia's military. He views further military support for Ukraine as "plan B". "Missiles, long-range missiles, and Patriots (missile defense system - ed.)," added Zelensky.
He also warned that a quick agreement over Ukraine would not lead to lasting peace. Zelensky remains determined not to allow the new American administration to marginalize Ukraine. "I will not let Putin win," he emphasized in his interview with "The Economist".
