KYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said the prospect of peace talks with Russia largely “depends” on the outcome of next month’s US presidential election.
Speaking to reporters in Kyiv on Monday, with comments released on Tuesday, Zelensky said that Moscow is closely monitoring US policy, which could shape future negotiations.
“First of all, it depends on the elections in the United States,” Zelensky said when asked if Russia was ready for peace talks. He added, “I think they will be watching the policy of the United States.”
Zelensky’s remarks come as Ukraine continues its battle against Russian forces in the east and south of the country. US support—both military and financial—has been crucial for Kyiv, but concerns have risen over a possible shift in Washington’s stance, particularly if Republican candidate Donald Trump wins the presidency.
Trump has previously voiced scepticism about the extensive support the US has provided to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began.
Despite these concerns, Zelensky said that he has had productive meetings with both Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate. “I had a good meeting with Trump. It was very positive. And I’m glad about that. I had a very good meeting with Harris, not the first one,” he said.
READ ALSO: Hezbollah Targets Israeli Naval Base and Tel Aviv Suburbs
Zelensky also expressed hope that the US would act swiftly following the election to clarify its policy on the conflict. “They will not wait until January,” he remarked.
The Ukrainian president also touched on the ongoing debate regarding Ukraine’s potential NATO membership. He accused Germany of being hesitant about supporting Ukraine’s NATO ambitions, citing concerns about Russia’s potential reaction.
READ ALSO: Israeli Airstrikes in Beit Lahia Result in Mass Casualties
“It is a fact that the German side is sceptical about us joining NATO. They are afraid of the NATO-Germany issue in terms of the Russian reaction,” Zelensky said.
While Germany has expressed caution, Zelensky said that France and Britain were more supportive of Ukraine’s NATO membership bid. He added that the positions of other NATO members, including Hungary and Slovakia, also hinge on US leadership in the alliance.
Ukraine, now in the third year of its war with Russia, relies on Western support to fight the Russian invasion. Russian forces are advancing on the battlefield, where they have superiority in manpower and equipment against Ukraine.
