Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has flatly rejected any idea of holding peace talks with Russia despite the difficult situation of Kiev's army on the front line.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky chairs an important meeting of the General Staff on November 10, 2023, discussing the strategic vision for Kiev's military operations as well as specific steps to implement that vision. (Source: Ukrinform) |
On November 21, in an interview with the Sun newspaper, Mr. Zelensky stated: "Yes. There are difficulties on the battlefield. But making friends or sitting at the diplomatic table with Russia now is not going to happen."
On November 4, NBC quoted US officials as saying that the US and the European Union (EU) have begun dialogue with Ukraine about potential peace talks with Russia and what Kiev might have to give up if a compromise is reached.
In another development, on November 21, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius arrived in Ukraine on a surprise visit to reaffirm Berlin's support for Kiev in its conflict with Russia.
Minister Pistorius arrived in Kiev by train and is expected to hold talks with his Ukrainian counterpart as well as host country President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Berlin, Kiev's second-largest military aid provider after Washington, is seeking to offer reassurances after a shift in focus to the Middle East war raised concerns about a possible reduction in support for Ukraine.
This is Mr Pistorius's second visit to Kiev since he became German defence minister earlier this year, and comes a day after US defence secretary Lloyd Austin made an unannounced trip to the eastern European country.
In addition to political talks, Mr Pistorius will take part in a wreath-laying ceremony at Kiev's Maidan Square and visit a military training centre.
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