Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed he held a second conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, following Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a potential end to the war, reports Rks News.
In his statement, Zelensky firmly reiterated Kyiv’s unwavering stance on not withdrawing troops from the occupied territories.
“We will not pull our troops out from our own land. That is my constitutional duty and that of our armed forces. There will be no ultimatums—no one will surrender their land, their people, or their homes. I don’t know what principles Putin’s so-called memorandum is based on, but if Russia is demanding the withdrawal of our troops from our territory, it means they don’t actually want the war to end—because they know very well that Ukraine will never agree to that,” Zelensky stated.
According to the Ukrainian president, Trump believes Russia is ready for compromises, and that initiating direct negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow is a top priority for the American president. Zelensky emphasized that a ceasefire would be the first step to test Russia’s genuine willingness for peace.
“I understand that the U.S. discussed this with Putin and the Russian side; that a bilateral format might lead to a memorandum, which could then form an action plan to end the war—essentially, an agreement. A memorandum that both or all parties would support, which would include a ceasefire. As of now, I have no knowledge of such a proposal. But if Russia puts forward a memorandum, we will be ready to present our vision,” Zelensky concluded.
