Kiev Ready for Discussions
On June 16, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Kiev is open to initiating peace talks with Russia as early as Monday, provided Moscow withdraws from all Ukrainian territories.
According to Ziare he was speaking at the conclusion of a peace summit in Switzerland, Zelensky emphasized that Russian President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to end the war voluntarily and must be stopped through military or diplomatic means.
Despite significant Western aid, Zelensky noted that it is insufficient to secure a victory, but he highlighted the unwavering international support for Ukraine demonstrated at the summit.
International Summit Shows Solidarity
The peace summit concluded with numerous countries committing to uphold Ukraine's territorial integrity, although nations like India, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia abstained from signing the final document.
The statement condemned Russia for the destruction and suffering caused by the war, demanded the restoration of Ukrainian control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, and referred to the Russian invasion explicitly as a "war."
Despite some countries urging Ukraine to accept difficult compromises, the summit underscored global solidarity, with leaders attending despite Russian pressure.
Stresses the Need for Strong Support
President Zelensky expressed gratitude to world leaders for their support and independence in attending the summit.
He reiterated that Ukraine has always pursued peace and urged China to engage seriously in peace proposals, emphasizing mutual respect for territorial integrity.
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte highlighted the unity among participants in seeking peace for Ukraine, despite differing opinions on the path to achieve it. Zelensky concluded by stating that the summit's outcomes will be communicated to Moscow, aiming for a definitive end to the war in future peace negotiations.
