Geneva: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism over "important steps" taken during peace talks in Geneva with the United States, yet emphasized that additional work is essential to conclude the ongoing conflict with Russia.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ukrainian, American, and European officials convened in Switzerland following a widely criticized US proposal that appeared to accede to Moscow's demands. The negotiations were described as "constructive" in a joint statement by all parties involved.
EU leaders are anticipated to engage in emergency discussions on Ukraine during a summit in Angola later in the day. Zelensky, addressing a conference in Sweden via video, highlighted significant points retained in coordination with the US, including the release of all Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians, and the return of Ukrainian children taken by Russia.
Throughout the conflict, Kyiv has accused Russia of illegally transferring Ukrainian children from occupied regions into Russia. Zelensky described these developments as crucial but underscored the need for further efforts to attain genuine peace.
Zelensky remarked on Ukraine's "critical moment," pledging to pursue "compromises that strengthen but not weaken us." A recent 28-point US proposal alarmed Europe by potentially allowing Moscow to claim more territory, with many in Kyiv and the EU viewing it as conceding to Moscow.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to Zelensky, seeks legal acknowledgment for territories he has taken. Meanwhile, the Kremlin reported it had not been briefed on the Geneva talks' outcomes, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov noting that "adjustments" were made to a plan initially endorsed by former US President Donald Trump and welcomed by Putin.