Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly stated that Ukraine will not accept any decisions regarding its future made solely between the United States and Russia without Ukraine’s direct involvement. In an interview with NBC News’ “Meet The Press,” Zelensky emphasized the necessity of Ukraine’s participation in any peace negotiations, asserting that no global leader can negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin about Ukraine without Ukrainian representation.
This declaration comes amid ongoing discussions about potential peace agreements to end the conflict initiated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Reports indicate that U.S. officials are traveling to Saudi Arabia to engage in peace talks with Russian representatives, raising concerns about the exclusion of Ukrainian officials from these critical discussions.
Zelensky has also highlighted the indispensable role of U.S. military aid in Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression, expressing that Ukraine’s chances of survival would be significantly diminished without continued American support. Despite expressing trust in President Donald Trump, Zelensky has called for “real and guaranteed” peace, emphasizing the need for concrete security assurances to deter further Russian advances.
In light of uncertainties surrounding future U.S. support, Zelensky has advocated for the creation of a European army to bolster the continent’s defense capabilities. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, he urged European nations to unite and take proactive measures to ensure their security, independent of external assistance.
As the situation develops, President Zelensky remains steadfast that any decisions impacting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must include Ukrainian participation, rejecting any agreements made without the nation’s consent.
Zelensky: “I will never accept any decisions between the United States and Russia about Ukraine. Never.”
— Joey Salads (@JoeySalads) February 16, 2025