Zelensky Reflects on Recent Tensions with Trump, Ready for Peace Talks
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Synopsis
Ukrainian President Zelensky referred to his recent public disagreement with President Trump as regrettable and expressed readiness for peace negotiations. He proposed immediate steps to halt hostilities with Russia and emphasized gratitude for US support.
Key Takeaways
- Zelensky calls recent conflict with Trump regrettable.
- Ukraine is eager to negotiate peace quickly.
- Proposed steps include prisoner releases and ceasefires.
- Stressed the importance of US support for Ukraine.
- Ready to sign agreements on rare earth minerals with the US.
Kyiv, March 4 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday described his recent public disagreement with US President Donald Trump as “regrettable” and expressed Ukraine's willingness to engage in peace negotiations “as soon as possible” to promote enduring peace.
In an extensive message on X, the Ukrainian leader stated that the recent Oval Office encounter, where he publicly clashed with President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, was “regrettable” and emphasized the need to mend relations.
Zelensky’s comments followed a decision by the Trump administration to suspend all aid to Ukraine until it was clear whether the Ukrainian President was committed to ending the conflict.
“None of us desires an unending war,” Zelensky wrote. “Ukraine is prepared to engage in negotiations promptly to achieve lasting peace. No one desires peace more than the Ukrainians. My team and I are ready to collaborate under President Trump’s strong leadership to secure a lasting peace.”
The Ukrainian leader went on to suggest initial steps towards halting hostilities with Russia.
“We are prepared to act swiftly to conclude the war, starting with the release of prisoners and a ceasefire in the air — prohibiting missiles, long-range drones, and attacks on energy and other civilian structures — and a maritime truce immediately, provided Russia reciprocates. Following this, we aim to advance rapidly through subsequent stages and work with the US towards a robust final agreement.”
He acknowledged the frustration from the Trump administration regarding his perceived lack of appreciation for the assistance his nation has received from the US.
“We genuinely value the support America has extended to help Ukraine uphold its sovereignty and independence. We remember the pivotal moment when President Trump supplied Ukraine with Javelins. We are grateful for that.”
Zelensky addressed the fallout from the Oval Office meeting that was broadcast globally. He had challenged the Trump administration’s diplomatic efforts to end the war, receiving pushback from Trump and Vance for not showing enough gratitude and respect.
“Our meeting in Washington at the White House last Friday did not unfold as intended. It is regrettable that it transpired this way. It is time to rectify this. We hope for future interactions and collaboration to be constructive.”
The Ukrainian President concluded his post by stating his readiness to sign an agreement with the US regarding rare earth mineral reserves in Ukraine.
“Any time and in any convenient format, as we view this agreement as a step towards enhanced security and solid guarantees, and I sincerely hope it will be effective,” he asserted.
