Surprising Development: Zelensky Opens Door for Negotiations with Putin on Territories
The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hinted at the possibility of a direct meeting with his Russian counterpart VladimirPutin, in a notable shift in his tone regarding one of the most complex issues of the ongoing war that has lasted nearly four years: the issue of territories.
* Approaching a Document for Ceasefire
In statements made yesterday, Zelensky confirmed that Kyiv and Moscow are nearing an agreement on a document that outlines a mechanism to monitor any ceasefire, following a round of peace talks hosted in Geneva with American mediation.
He explained that this document aims to establish a practical framework for monitoring compliance with the ceasefire in preparation for ending the war.
During his appearance on "Piers Morgan Uncensored," he acknowledged that progress on political files has been slow, but pointed out that the leaders of both countries "can try to reach an agreement on the issue of territorial concessions," which is the most sensitive and contentious point since the outbreak of the conflict.
He also revealed that the next round of negotiations will be held in Switzerland, continuing the negotiation process sponsored by the United States.
* Reservations and Criticisms
Despite this openness, Zelensky expressed dissatisfaction with the results of the last round, emphasizing in his evening recorded speech that "the outcome so far is insufficient."
He added that military officials discussed some issues seriously, but "sensitive political matters and potential compromises" were not addressed as needed.
He also confirmed that Americans are discussing a "new document" between Russia and NATO, referring to the broader international dimension of the crisis.
* Moscow: Difficult Negotiations
For his part, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov described the Geneva talks as "difficult," explaining that the Russian delegation reports directly to Putin, and noting that it is too early to talk about final assessments or tangible results.
He also pointed out that the location for the next round has not been officially announced yet.
* American Plan of 20 Points
These developments come amid an American plan proposed months ago, which includes about 20 points, suggesting that Kyiv make some concessions, particularly regarding territories in the east of the country, in exchange for security guarantees.
However, Kyiv has repeatedly emphasized that conceding territories still outside Russian control is a difficult and "unconstitutional" matter.
In contrast, Moscow insists on the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the Donetsk region and their abandonment, along with Ukraine's commitment not to join NATO and not to deploy European forces on its territory.
* Urgent Call to Europe
In this context, Zelensky urged European countries to urgently provide his country with defensive systems, amid the ongoing military operations and the complexity of the political path.
Between cautious Ukrainian flexibility and ongoing Russian rigidity, negotiations seem to be facing a critical test:
Will the rapprochement on the ceasefire mechanism pave the way for a historic settlement, or will the territorial issue remain the biggest stumbling block?
