KYIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Ukraine must be directly involved in any negotiations to end the ongoing conflict with Russia, following reports of a potential summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Zelenskyy emphasized that discussions about Ukraine’s future must include Ukrainian representatives. His statement came amid reports that Russia had communicated a possible willingness to engage the United States in talks aimed at ending the war.
“If any negotiations are to take place about Ukraine, they must include Ukraine,” Zelenskyy told reporters. “Our sovereignty and territorial integrity cannot be discussed without our participation.”
The reported Trump-Putin summit, if confirmed, could significantly influence diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict. President Trump’s administration has not publicly confirmed any meeting, but Ukrainian officials remain watchful of any developments.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 intensified a conflict that began with the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Despite several international ceasefire efforts, fighting continues in multiple regions.
Zelenskyy made clear that Ukraine seeks a diplomatic resolution that ensures the country’s territorial integrity. He warned against any negotiation frameworks that exclude Ukraine or compromise its sovereignty.
President Trump’s potential involvement adds a new dimension to the diplomatic landscape. During his previous term, his interactions with Putin drew global scrutiny.
A renewed dialogue between the two leaders could shape the direction of U.S. engagement in Eastern Europe.
Ukraine’s allies, including European Union and NATO member states, have reiterated support for Ukraine’s direct inclusion in any peace talks. They stress that Ukraine must remain a central party in any agreement intended to end hostilities.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine is prepared to engage in meaningful diplomacy, provided all parties recognize Ukraine’s rights and role in the process. The Ukrainian government continues to coordinate closely with international partners as it monitors the situation.
As of now, there is no official confirmation or schedule for a Trump-Putin meeting. Ukraine’s leadership remains firm in its position that any future talks must involve Ukrainian representatives to ensure a fair and lasting resolution to the conflict.
