Zelenskyy highlights importance of ‘constructive’ talks with US

ISTANBUL

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the need Wednesday for “constructive” talks with the US as he prepares for a key meeting with US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg in Kyiv.

Zelenskyy said in a statement that multiple high-level meetings were held with military commanders, intelligence officials and government ministers to prepare for his discussions with Kellogg, who has already arrived in the Ukrainian capital.

“Gen. Kellogg has met with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, our intelligence and special services leaders, and the head of my office. Our meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, and it is very important that this discussion, and our cooperation with the US in general, be constructive,” said Zelenskyy.

The Ukrainian leader stressed that lasting peace remains Kyiv’s top priority as the country approaches the third anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war.

“Together with the US and Europe, peace can be more secure, and this is our goal. The key is that this goal is shared by our partners,” Zelenskyy said, adding that Ukraine has wanted to end the war since its first moments.

Zelenskyy voiced confidence in Ukraine’s victory and a future where Russia would not be able to threaten it again.

“I am sure we will end this war with a reliable peace -- one where Russia cannot invade Ukraine again, where Ukrainian prisoners return from Russian captivity, and where Ukraine has a future. This is the natural desire of every nation,” he said.