Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called for renewed diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict with Russia during his Friday evening video address, stating he anticipates American suggestions for new negotiation formats.
During his nightly remarks following a virtual conference with leaders from Britain, France and Germany, Zelenskiy emphasized that current battlefield conditions favor Ukraine.
“Right now everything must be done to intensify diplomacy,” Zelenskiy said. “I am also expecting a response from the American side regarding possible formats and the schedule of meetings.”
The Ukrainian leader described the military situation as unfavorable for Russian forces, stating the battlefield trend was “not in the interests of the occupier. We continue to increase the rate at which we are destroying Russian personnel. This, together with sanctions of all forms, is forcing Russia towards choosing diplomacy.”
Zelenskiy reported that he briefed French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on current military developments along the front lines.
According to the Ukrainian president, his country has regained control of 590 square kilometers (228 square miles) of previously occupied land since January began.
A statement from Britain indicated that Zelenskiy updated the three leaders about “the progress made by Ukraine’s military in recent weeks, as it continues to ramp up its defence in the face of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s continued attacks.”
The British statement noted that all three leaders “confirmed they would double down on their support in the coming months” and reached consensus that “standing up to Russian aggression remains vital for European and global security.”
