Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is willing to consider a maritime truce in the Black Sea, based on proposals submitted by Egypt, India, and Turkey. He made this announcement during the Crimea Platform summit, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's efforts to secure a food corridor in the Black Sea and export essential goods needed by global markets.
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to European countries, the United States, and other nations, including Egypt, Turkey, and India, for their support. He mentioned that discussions with partners have led to various countries joining efforts to protect food security and ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea. According to Zelenskyy, Egypt, India, and Turkey have proposed written and documented options for a potential truce.
The Ukrainian President outlined three possible paths to a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. These include a ceasefire in the energy sector, a maritime ceasefire, and a trilateral negotiation format proposed by the United States. Zelenskyy indicated that Ukraine is prepared to refrain from targeting energy infrastructure as part of a potential agreement.
Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine is exploring a "maritime ceasefire," specifically concerning grain exports, but noted that this would not be limited to just grain and agricultural products. He stated that the maritime trade also encompasses energy, minerals, and other goods. The President mentioned that several countries, including Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and India, have shown interest in such a format.
Regarding the trilateral negotiation format proposed by the United States, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine has not seen any indication of Russian President Vladimir Putin's willingness to engage in such talks. However, he mentioned that discussions are ongoing about the possibility of meetings at the technical level. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for Ukraine to increase pressure on Russia through sanctions and by strengthening its defensive capabilities.
Zelenskyy warned that if Russia refuses to negotiate, Ukraine will seek stricter American sanctions. He expressed hope that the upcoming G20 summit in December could provide a platform for meaningful discussions. The Ukrainian President noted that the participation of US President Donald Trump and the diverse representation of G20 countries could create a favorable environment for positive outcomes.
Zelenskyy concluded that Ukraine is prepared to support a negotiated solution if an agreement can be reached. He stressed the importance of continued international support and pressure on Russia to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Ukrainian President's statements highlight the ongoing efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Key points
- Ukraine is open to a maritime truce in the Black Sea based on proposals from Egypt, India, and Turkey.
- Zelenskyy outlined three possible paths to a ceasefire, including a ceasefire in the energy sector and a maritime ceasefire.
- The Ukrainian President emphasized the need for increased pressure on Russia through sanctions and strengthened defensive capabilities.
