Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Serhii Kyslytsia believes that Ukraine, together with the U.S. and European partners, is gradually advancing on security guarantees despite Russia’s attempts to derail the peace process.
In an interview with NBC News on Friday, Kyslytsia called the recent White House meeting “a major achievement” and credited former President Donald Trump for playing “a decisive role.”
He dismissed Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s attempts to question President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s legitimacy, calling it a “worn-out propaganda cliché.” Kyslytsia stressed that Ukraine and its allies are “on the right track to advancing negotiations.”
He also warned that Moscow is deliberately stalling the process and “continues to manipulate the U.S. and President Trump personally,” which, according to Kyslytsia, “is starting to irritate the Americans.”
Kyslytsia said he sees “no signs that Putin is ready for substantive negotiations or meetings — bilateral or trilateral.”
Regarding security guarantees, he noted that experts are working on a coordinated draft, with the first version expected early next week. He categorically rejected Russia’s participation in shaping Ukraine’s security:
"Russia must fulfill its part of the deal and work in a spirit of cooperation with the U.S. and European partners. Security guarantees are not meant to accommodate any future malicious actions by the aggressor."
Kyslytsia added that Washington should be prepared to apply additional pressure on Moscow if it continues to avoid a peaceful resolution.
On territorial issues, he reaffirmed Ukraine’s firm position:
"President Zelenskyy is guided by Ukraine’s legal framework and public sentiment. The public is categorically against trading our land for peace."
He concluded by emphasizing that while Zelenskyy is ready to sit down with Putin, the starting point for any talks must be the current line of contact.
