Zelenskyy: Emotions high in London talks, but peace still the goal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged on Wednesday that talks in London were marked by emotion—but stressed the momentum for peace remains.

“Emotions have run high today. But it is good that 5 countries met to bring peace closer,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.

He said the U.S. had shared its vision, while Ukraine and European partners presented their own proposals.

Tensions emerged after reports suggested the U.S. had floated terms involving recognition of Russia’s control over Crimea—something Zelenskyy firmly rejected earlier this week.

On Wednesday, he reaffirmed that any deal must respect Ukraine’s constitution.

“Ukraine will always abide by its constitution,” he said, adding that he believed Western allies, including the United States, would act in line with their “strong decisions.”

The phrasing was seen as a subtle response to criticism from Washington, where officials reportedly viewed Zelenskyy’s position on Crimea as limiting the space for negotiation.

Despite the friction, the talks in London mark a rare moment of coordinated diplomacy among Ukraine, the U.S., and European states—one Zelenskyy hopes can build toward a ceasefire.

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