On April 22, 2025, Ukrainian President Zelensky stated at a Tuesday press conference that Kyiv would be ready for direct talks with Moscow to end the ongoing conflict if Russia first agrees to a full ceasefire. This statement marks a significant shift in Ukraine's diplomatic stance, especially since Ukraine has consistently refused any form of direct dialogue with the Kremlin since the outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian War.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is prepared for this stage and willing to negotiate with Russia in any form. "If the Russians are willing, as we saw again on Easter, they can reduce airstrikes… If Russia is ready for a full ceasefire, then after the ceasefire, we will be prepared to engage in any form of dialogue with them," he added.
Nevertheless, Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine will never recognize the territories occupied by Russia. He also expressed hope that the United States will play a more significant role in advancing the peace process between Russia and Ukraine and exert pressure on Russia.
Regarding the upcoming talks in London, Zelensky stated that Ukraine is ready to discuss unconditional or partial ceasefire options, with the team commencing formal discussions in London. The talks, scheduled for April 23, will be conducted by a "Europe + US" delegation, which includes representatives from France, the UK, Germany, and Ukraine. However, these talks may involve some ceasefire proposals unsatisfactory to Ukraine, including the US government recognizing Crimea as Russian, freezing existing frontlines, and eventually lifting sanctions on Russia. These proposals are the result of US-Russia negotiations, although Zelensky noted that Ukraine has not yet received a formal proposal from the US.
Zelensky also mentioned, “Different individuals have put forward various suggestions through multiple channels, including the media.” He stated that Ukraine believes reaching a quick consensus on all issues is impossible. He sees that discussing everything at once would only prolong the war, lead to US fatigue, and potentially prompt the US to withdraw or exert pressure.
It is noteworthy that Russia also recently extended a "peace talk invitation" to Zelensky, with Putin proposing the first bilateral talks between Ukraine and Russia in years. Since the war began in February 2022, there haven't been any direct dialogues. These new negotiation developments provide a new possibility for a peaceful resolution of the conflict, though the outlook remains uncertain.
