Ukraine sees an opportunity to end combat operations by this summer, though this depends on Russia's willingness and security guarantees from the US. Meanwhile, Kyiv has agreed to a proposal from American partners to hold a meeting with a Russian delegation in Miami next week.
As reported by "Hvylya", citing Volodymyr Zelensky's comments to journalists, the President outlined the prospects for the peace process, linking them to specific security and economic factors.
According to the Head of State, the phased conclusion of the war relies on signing an agreement on security guarantees, which in turn depends on the position of the United States. Economic resilience via the so-called "Prosperity Package" also plays a critical role.
"We can end combat operations by summer if there is a desire not only from the Ukrainian side but also from the Russian side. If we have these two things, we proceed to the 20-point plan. We are finding steps toward certain possible decisions regarding parts of the Donetsk region. On issues of territories, our views differ," the President noted.
Separately, Zelensky commented on the logistics of future negotiations. He categorically rejected the possibility of visiting the capital of the aggressor state.
"I have heard several times publicly that the Russian side invited, it seems, me personally. I reacted to this. We are defending our state, Russia attacked us, and they are the aggressor. I cannot go to Moscow for negotiations with Putin," he emphasized.
Instead, Kyiv is ready for meetings on neutral territory or in partner countries. Specifically, the US proposed holding a round of negotiations in Miami as early as next week.
"We confirmed immediately and waited for the Russians. So far, as I understand it, Russia is hesitating. This will again be a proposal regarding the Middle East or America. We are ready, it makes no difference to us – whether to meet in Miami or Abu Dhabi. The main thing is to have a result," Zelensky explained.
The President also refuted information published by the Financial Times regarding alleged plans to announce an election or referendum date on February 24. He called the date tragic and symbolic, stressing that elections are possible only after a ceasefire.
"This is a very serious date. Four years of war. This involves a large number of people who defended our state, who gave their lives... I could never do what you are asking about [announce elections on this date]. Achieve a ceasefire — and there will be elections. That is, it is a question of security," the Ukrainian leader concluded.