In an interview with French reporters at a school gym in Rivne on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need for Russia’s participation in a second peace summit scheduled for November. This follows the first summit held in Switzerland last month, where Russia was notably absent from the invitee list.
Zelensky conveyed to French media, including AFP, that the global consensus, including Ukraine’s stance, is in favor of having Russia join the upcoming summit aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine. As Russian forces gain momentum on the battlefield and international aid becomes uncertain, Zelensky has intensified his diplomatic efforts to bring the conflict to a resolution.
The first summit, held in June at the Swiss resort of Burgenstock, gathered leaders from numerous countries but was dismissed by Russia and ignored by China. Zelensky now argues that it is essential for Moscow to participate in the next summit to achieve meaningful progress. He stressed, “The majority of the world today says that Russia must be represented at the second summit, otherwise we will not achieve meaningful results.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed a willingness for negotiations but demands Kyiv’s concession of territories claimed by Moscow as a condition for a ceasefire. Zelensky has outlined a comprehensive 10-point plan that includes restoring Ukrainian territorial integrity, returning prisoners of war, and securing energy and economic guarantees for Ukraine. He called on China to exert pressure on Russia to end its invasion, rather than seeking Beijing’s direct mediation.
Zelensky also criticized some allies for restricting the use of Western weapons and delaying arms deliveries, which he argues hampers Ukraine’s ability to defend itself effectively. He expressed frustration over the potential consequences of violating the terms of Western-donated weapons, highlighting the risks associated with weapon supply and international support.
In addition, Zelensky addressed the International Olympic Committee’s decision to allow Russian athletes to compete under a neutral flag at the Paris Olympics, which he condemned as insufficient and symbolic.
With the U.S. presidential race presenting potential uncertainties for Ukrainian support, Zelensky acknowledged the “risks” associated with the political shifts in Washington. He has engaged with both major U.S. political camps to ensure continued dialogue about Ukraine’s future, regardless of the election outcome.
