President Zelensky Wants Europe To Clear Security Guarantees
JAKARTA - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday told European allies it was important to produce a clear definition of security guarantees for Ukraine as part of a plan to secure a peaceful settlement with Russia after 3.5 years of war.
He said in a virtual meeting with Polish President Karol Nawrocki and Estonian leaders, Latvia, Lithuania, and Denmark held in Poland and followed a Russian attack on Kyiv Thursday which local officials said killed 22 people.
President Zelensky said meeting participants had "aligned" positions by seeking greater pressure on Russia ahead of a diplomatic meeting on the Ukrainian conflict, which began with Russia's invasion of its smaller neighboring country in February 2022.
In remarks at the meeting, which was posted on the presidential website, President Zelensky said Ukraine believed Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin was still only interested in continuing the war.
Ukraine needs a solid foundation for security guarantees that have been approved by US President Donald Trump and have been discussed for a week, as well as President Putin's mutual understanding deserves more pressure, President Zelensky said.
"And when we talk about security guarantees, we need a clear answer - who will help us survive on land, air and sea if Russia comes again?" he said, as reported by Reuters on August 29.
"And how exactly can you participate. I ask you to explain your role," he added.
President Zelensky said it was "important for President Trump to see us in Europe unite in our determination to end the war".
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President Trump has sought to arrange a meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky, saying he could impose new sanctions on Moscow if there is no progress in ending the conflict.
Regarding the attack on Ukrainian territory Thursday, the White House said President Trump was "unhappy" about the incident.
President Zelensky himself has long supported Trump's call for a meeting and supported calls from European leaders for a ceasefire before negotiations.