Ukraine Ready for New Round of Talks, Russia Yet to Confirm

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed readiness for a new round of negotiations with Russia, potentially taking place on February 17 or 18 in the United States. This development comes amidst continued strikes from Russia on Ukraine, which the president asserts show Russia's intent to persist the war. However, Russia has not yet confirmed its participation in these proposed talks.

Background and Context

Tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to escalate, with Russia launching ballistic missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities. These strikes, according to President Zelensky, are diminishing trust in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.

Zelensky anticipates a higher level of activity from Ukrainian diplomats in supporting the country's cause on the international stage. He insists that without a specific date for Ukraine's entry into the European Union, Russia will attempt to block the process. I am absolutely confident that if ... there is no date, then Russia will do everything to block the process, Zelensky said on February 11.

Key Developments

Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukraine remains eager to negotiate peace. President Zelensky has accepted an American proposal to host the next round of negotiations, though he emphasizes that territorial issues will remain central in these discussions. However, the Russian side has not yet responded to this invitation.

In an interview with The Atlantic, Zelensky maintained that he would rather have no deal than pressure Ukrainians into a bad one. He holds the stance that any settlement to end the war must ensure a dignified, lasting peace. He also mentioned that the idea of conducting elections during wartime originated with the Russian side.

Implications and Reactions

The ongoing conflict and potential peace negotiations have sparked various reactions. Some Ukrainians fear the conditions for freezing the conflict proposed by Moscow and adopted by the White House. A poll reveals that the majority of citizens are against surrendering Donetsk, a key area of the conflict.

Meanwhile, there are fears of a full U.S. withdrawal from the war effort. Washington remains a crucial supplier of military hardware and vital support.

Conclusion: Current Status

As of now, Ukraine signals readiness for the proposed talks, with locations such as Miami or Abu Dhabi being mentioned. The Ukrainian president has stated that the result is the key aspect of these talks and that any elections would only occur after a ceasefire and obtaining security guarantees. However, the silence from the Russian side leaves the timing and the likelihood of these negotiations uncertain.