U.S. President Donald Trump is the only global leader who can compel Russia to begin real negotiations, according to Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine.
As reported by an Ukrinform correspondent, Yermak made the statement to journalists while commenting on the outcome of his meeting with White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in New York.
“I believe everyone understands by now that the only leader who can force Russia to sit down at the negotiating table is President Trump. And today, it was important to hear from Mr. Witkoff that President Trump remains committed to advancing this process. It matters to him,” Yermak said.
He noted that President Zelensky maintains a transparent and principled position and is ready for a bilateral format of negotiations. “He is ready for the bilateral format proposed, which was offered by Putin, when—following the summit with European leaders—President Trump called him (Putin – ed.), and he agreed to that format,” Yermak emphasized.
Yermak also pointed out that several countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Turkey, and Italy, have expressed readiness to host negotiations in either a bilateral or trilateral format. However, political will is needed.
“There will definitely be a meeting—whether bilateral or trilateral (with Trump’s participation – ed.),” he stressed. “And negotiations will definitely begin at a certain point.”
The Head of the President’s Office also noted that the stance of Ukraine, the United States, and united Europe makes it impossible for Russia to continue misleading the world. “Peace must be just,” he emphasized, adding, “No one wants peace more than we Ukrainians.”
As previously reported by Ukrinform, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko and Andriy Yermak are currently on a visit to New York. On Friday, Yermak held talks with Witkoff.
Photo: Volodymyr Ilchenko
Source: Only Trump can force Russia to sit down at negotiating table – Yermak
