Kuleba explained who received the message from Zelensky regarding the cessation of war without the return of territories.
The former head of Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dmytro Kuleba, suggested that President Volodymyr Zelensky's remarks about the possibility of ending the war without regaining territories if Ukraine joins NATO serve as a signal to the newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump. Kuleba expressed the view that the Ukrainian government aims to avoid confrontation with Trump, who has repeatedly stated his intention to quickly conclude the war between Ukraine and Russia. Consequently, Zelensky, according to Kuleba, consistently emphasizes the need for diplomatic solutions.
In a comment to Politico, Kuleba noted that Trump may attempt to resolve the conflict swiftly, but this is unlikely to align with the interests of both parties. Zelensky and Putin believe that such a scenario would necessitate significant concessions.
"Analyze his recent interviews. Zelensky continually emphasizes: 'We must seek diplomatic solutions,' 'The Crimea must be returned through diplomacy,' 'We are not strong enough to restore the borders of 1991.' These statements are directed at Trump," Kuleba remarked.
According to the former minister, Russian leader Vladimir Putin believes in his own victory and seeks not only territorial concessions but also Ukraine's renunciation of NATO membership and the establishment of a strong army. Such demands, Kuleba stated, would "undermine the idea of security guarantees for Ukraine."
Kuleba mentioned that the Ukrainian president's statements aim to convince the global community that Putin's actions will be the reason for the failure of any peace initiative.
Zelensky's Statement: Context
On November 29, Volodymyr Zelensky stated in an interview with Sky News his readiness to end the hot phase of the war provided that the government-controlled part of Ukrainian territory is placed under NATO's umbrella. In his view, this would allow for later negotiations on the return of occupied territories "through diplomatic means." At the same time, the invitation to the Alliance should recognize Ukraine's internationally recognized borders.
It is worth noting that earlier, media reports indicated that Trump's special envoy, Keith Kellogg, is considering providing Ukraine with security guarantees instead of NATO membership. He suggests postponing the question of Alliance membership indefinitely.
Moreover, the President of Ukraine had previously stated that Russia wants to escalate the situation so that the future U.S. president cannot end the war. He sharply criticized Vladimir Putin's actions, who, during a speech in Kazakhstan, again highlighted Russia's missile capabilities. Additionally, the Kremlin leader's words may influence future U.S. peace initiatives.