Amid fears that the US and Russia would set terms that would terminate the war, Volodymyr Zelensky was able to win diplomatic support from Europe and NATO. Leaders’ discussions frequently mark significant changes or lay the groundwork for more extensive discussions in the intricate realm of international diplomacy. The world’s attention automatically shifts to what might happen next when influential people from all around the world get together before a high-profile meeting. One such diplomatic frenzy involving leaders from different nations has recently occurred.
Ahead of the U.S.-Russia summit, Zelenskiy warns that Russia is getting ready for new offensives
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Russia was preparing its troops for new offensives instead of getting ready to stop the war in Ukraine, after he spoke to the leaders of India and Saudi Arabia on Monday as part of efforts to mobilise support for Kyiv beyond Europe. Zelenskiy won diplomatic backing from Europe and the NATO alliance on Sunday.
Zelenskiy said in a nightly address,
“Today, there was a report from the intelligence and military command about what Putin is counting on and what he is actually preparing for. In particular, military preparations. He is certainly not getting ready for a ceasefire and war end.”
Russia moves troops for upcoming attacks while Zelenskiy looks to Saudi Arabia and India for assistance
He added, without providing any specifics, that Russia was moving its troops for new operations on Ukrainian soil. He said,
“There is no sign that the Russians have received signals to prepare for a post-war situation.”
Vladyslav Voloshyn, Ukraine’s military spokesperson for the southern frontline sector, told Reuters on Monday that Russia was moving some of its units in the Zaporizhzhia region for further assaults. In separate statements on Monday, Zelenskiy said he had spoken to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, both of whom have taken cautious diplomatic positions on Russia’s invasion of its neighbour.
Recognising the subtleties in Zelensky’s outreach
Zelensky has expressed caution, pointing out that there is currently no indication that Russia is getting ready for true peace, despite the optimism around the planned U.S.-Russian negotiations. This worry was reaffirmed in his discussions with Saudi and Indian leaders, who also pointed out the challenges of coming to a long-term agreement.
These conversations serve as a reminder that, despite its importance, diplomacy can be a drawn-out and challenging process, particularly when trust has been damaged by years of hostilities. Zelensky emphasised the existing impasse and the difficulties that lie ahead by saying, “There is still no indication that the other side is ready to choose peace.” Furthermore, Saudi Arabia confirms full compliance with the voluntary OPEC+ output target.
Zelenskiy urges continued sanctions and security guarantees
Zelenskiy also urged his country’s allies to keep their sanctions against Russia in place until Ukraine receives security guarantees. Putin has also made a flurry of calls in recent days, speaking to the leaders of China, India, Brazil and ex-Soviet states to brief them on his contacts with the United States about the war in Ukraine.
On Wednesday, Germany will convene a virtual meeting of European leaders to discuss how to pressure Russia to end the war in Ukraine ahead of a European call with Trump. Zelenskiy and EU, and NATO officials were expected to join the meeting. Earlier on Monday, Zelenskiy warned that any concessions to Russia would not persuade it to stop fighting in Ukraine and that there was a need to ramp up pressure on the Kremlin. The globe keeps a close eye on these conflicts because the results could have an impact on stability far beyond their local areas, as the U.S. plan aims to disarm Hezbollah and exit Gaza.
GCN.com/Reuters