Zelenskyy hopes for ‘meaningful meeting’ with US next week, welcomes Europe’s plan to rearm

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday expressed optimism for a “meaningful meeting” with US officials next week, while also welcoming Europe’s initiative to rearm in response to the ongoing war with Russia.

According to The Guardian report, Zelenskyy emphasised that the conflict, driven solely by Russia, must end through mutual agreements and trust-building measures.

In a statement, Zelenskyy outlined that a cessation of attacks on civilian infrastructure and military operations in the Black Sea would be essential steps toward establishing a truce.

“The next step is basic trust in the circumstances in which the negotiations are taking place. Ukrainians, all Europeans, Americans, every human heart in the world that does not agree with the war – we all need to feel that the Russians are not deceiving us. The release of prisoners could serve as a means of establishing basic trust,” The Guardian quoted Zelenskyy as saying at a summit in Brussels where European leaders have gathered to discuss defence spending and support for Ukraine after the US paused military aid to Kyiv.

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“This should be based on the understanding that any truce or trust-building measures can only serve as a prologue to a full and fair settlement, to a comprehensive agreement on security guarantees and the end of the war,” he added.

Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to peace but asserted that it cannot come at the expense of Ukrainian sovereignty. He highlighted the need for transparency in the peace process, stating that Ukraine would keep European nations informed about negotiations and plans.

“The real question for any negotiations is whether Russia is capable of giving up the war. Be sure that Ukraine will share all the details of peace plans and the talks process with all of Europe. Every European nation that helps must be on board on the path to peace,” he said.

The Ukrainian leader urged that all security-related issues involving Ukraine should include Ukrainian participation, emphasising that respect for the interests of European states is vital for lasting peace on the continent.

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He pointed out the continued threat posed by Russian military operations, including ballistic missile attacks on Ukrainian cities.

“Every day and every night, we must protect lives. Russian ballistic missiles continue to strike our cities. Shelling at the front continues, and Russian sabotage groups are still trying to enter our territory across the border in Sumy and Kharkiv regions,” said Zelenskyy.

“Moscow is not reducing its investment in death, increasing its army, and making no pauses in trying to overcome sanctions. Russia now has 220 brigades with war experience, and in five years, they will bring this number to 300. We must respond to this by taking care of lives now, tomorrow, and in the future,” he added.

Zelenskyy welcomed the European Commission’s ReArm Europe Plan, advocating for a portion of defence funds to be allocated for arms production in Ukraine. He called for increased national defence spending across Europe and the modernisation of national armies, noting that European military strength must be rooted in both national capabilities and collaborative efforts.

“The ReArm Europe Plan is the right initiative. The defence funds under this European Plan should strengthen all parts of Europe, and I call for a significant part to be allocated to arms production in Ukraine – our industrial capabilities are the fastest and most relevant to the current security threats,” said Zelenskyy.

The Ukrainian President also expressed gratitude for the European Union’s sanctions against Russia and urged for a continued push for further sanctions until the occupation ceases.

“I’m grateful for the 16th EU sanctions package, and we must continue applying this pressure. We need a 17th sanctions package. These sanctions must remain in place until Russia stops the occupation. I am aware that a special European financial instrument for Ukraine’s resilience is being developed — I urge you to expedite this process,” said Zelenskyy.

He highlighted the necessity to expedite Ukraine’s EU membership negotiations, criticising delays in the process.

As Ukraine continues its pursuit of peace, Zelenskyy reaffirmed that the war persists solely because of Russia’s actions. He called for ongoing support from European leaders to help pave the way for a peaceful resolution.

Meanwhile, delegations from the US and Ukraine are likely to meet in the Saudi capital Riyadh on Tuesday, AFP quoted a senior Ukrainian official as saying, as Kyiv seeks to repair fractured ties with Trump’s administration.

Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff will lead the Ukrainian delegation, which could also include defence minister Rustem Umerov, the official told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

With inputs from agencies