Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a strong warning on Monday, stating that a potential withdrawal of the United States from the peace negotiation process in Ukraine would serve the interests of the Kremlin leader.
„It is essential for all of us that the United States does not distance itself from negotiations and the pursuit of peace, because the only one who would benefit from this would be Putin,” Zelensky conveyed in a message posted on social media.
Trump speaks with Putin and Zelensky in a new mediation effort
Zelensky's statements come shortly after separate phone calls that American President Donald Trump had with his counterparts from Ukraine and Russia.
These discussions reflect the Trump administration's attempt to find a diplomatic solution to end the war, amid signals that Washington could take a more relaxed approach towards Moscow.
Zelensky calls for tougher sanctions and constant support from the US
The Ukrainian President emphasized that new American sanctions against Russia could be decisive in limiting its ability to continue the war.
At the same time, he mentioned that "hard work" is needed to convince the Trump administration to maintain its active involvement, especially in the context of the American leader's desire to normalize relations with Russia.
In parallel with the diplomatic efforts of the United States, representatives of Ukraine and Russia met in Turkey on Friday.
The only concrete result of the meeting was an exchange of 1,000 prisoners of war from each side, as well as a promise to submit lists of conditions for a possible ceasefire.