Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has declared his readiness to engage in direct negotiations with Vladimir Putin, proposing Budapest as a potential venue for these crucial talks. In a recent interview, Zelenskyy also implored former U.S. President Donald Trump to intensify pressure on Russia, drawing a parallel between Putin and militant groups. He suggested that Trump’s approach to Russia should be more assertive than his past dealings with organizations like Hamas, stating, “Putin is something similar but stronger than Hamas. That is why more pressure.” Zelenskyy’s remarks come as Ukraine seeks advanced weaponry, including Tomahawk missiles, which could strike deep within Russian territory. While Trump’s response to the potential transfer of these long-range missiles was non-committal, Zelenskyy expressed cautious optimism that Trump had not outright rejected the idea. He believes that the prospect of receiving such weapons is a significant concern for Putin, who has previously warned that their delivery would signify a “new stage of escalation.” Zelenskyy emphasized that any lasting peace settlement must involve Ukraine’s direct participation, stating, “If we really want to have just and lasting peace, we need both sides of this tragedy. How can there be some deals without us about us?” He affirmed his willingness to attend a summit if it aims for genuine peace. Despite Russia’s ongoing attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure, Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine is not losing the war and that Putin’s escalating airstrikes are a sign of desperation, particularly as winter approaches and Russia aims to create an “energy disaster.” He firmly rejected any notion of ceding Ukrainian territory, viewing such concessions as counterproductive to achieving peace through diplomacy and negotiations conducted without duress.
