KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concerns on Friday regarding potential discussions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump, cautioning that Putin might seek to influence Trump over Ukraine’s ongoing conflict.
Zelensky’s remarks come in light of recent comments from Putin, who praised Trump and signaled a willingness to engage with him.
Zelensky warned that peace talks between Putin and Trump, particularly those excluding Ukraine and its European allies, could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and its role in any potential resolution of the war.
The war in Ukraine, now approaching its third year, has been the subject of extensive international diplomatic efforts.
Ukraine has consistently emphasized the need for direct involvement in peace negotiations, highlighting the importance of a collective effort with European partners.