Zelensky Calls for Security Guarantees Before Meeting Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that he is open to a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but only after securing international guarantees that would deter future Russian aggression. In remarks released on October 26, 2023, Zelensky emphasized the need for a clear framework of security assurances from Ukraine’s allies before any summit can take place.

Zelensky’s comments coincide with escalating military tensions, as both nations prepare for increased hostilities. Reports indicate that Russia has been amassing troops along the southern front line, while Ukraine has successfully test-launched a long-range cruise missile named Flamingo, capable of striking targets up to 3,000 kilometres (1,864 miles) away.

Zelensky expressed urgency regarding the formation of security guarantees, aiming for a comprehensive understanding within the next seven to ten days. He stated, “We need to understand which country will be ready to do what at each specific moment.” A coalition of allies, led by Britain and France, is currently working on the military support framework to bolster these guarantees.

Once a plan is established, Zelensky mentioned that he envisions a bilateral meeting between himself and Putin, preferably held in a “neutral” European country. He specifically ruled out any possibility of convening in Moscow and suggested locations such as Switzerland and Austria as potential venues. He also noted that Turkey could be an option, provided it is recognized as a NATO country.

In his remarks, Zelensky firmly opposed any involvement from China in the security discussions, citing Beijing’s historical support for Moscow. “We do not need guarantors who do not help Ukraine and did not help Ukraine at the time when we really needed it,” he stated.

The backdrop to Zelensky’s comments includes a significant uptick in Russian military actions. On the night of October 25, 2023, Russia launched a large-scale attack involving hundreds of drones and missiles against Ukraine, marking the most extensive assault since mid-July. This barrage resulted in one confirmed death and numerous injuries, leading Ukrainian officials to assert that Russia is not genuinely committed to pursuing peace talks, despite recent diplomatic efforts from the United States.

Meanwhile, Zelensky announced the successful testing of the Flamingo missile, asserting it as Ukraine’s most effective missile to date. He indicated that mass production could commence as soon as February 2024.

The political landscape has shifted with the arrival of Donald Trump in office earlier this year, who is advocating for a resolution to the ongoing conflict. Trump has engaged in discussions with both Zelensky and Putin, marking a potential pivot away from the long-standing Western strategy of isolating the Russian leader.

Despite these diplomatic overtures, the prospect of a summit between Zelensky and Putin remains uncertain. The Kremlin has downplayed the likelihood of such a meeting in the near future, emphasizing its desire to be included in conversations about Ukraine’s future security guarantees.

As the situation evolves, the international community continues to watch closely, particularly amid the ongoing military buildup and diplomatic negotiations.