During a session at the Veza Public Center, political expert Volodymyr Fesenko summarized the outcomes of the recent Washington meeting, discussing its implications for Ukraine, Europe, and the international arena. Fesenko noted that while the negotiations were positive for Ukraine, no substantial breakthroughs were achieved and European leaders remain skeptical about Donald Trump’s peace initiatives.
The expert highlighted that the negotiation track is tactical, with Europeans agreeing to engage with Trump’s initiative mainly to expose Russia’s position and to prevent Ukraine from being pressured into unfavorable peace deals. According to Fesenko, President Zelensky successfully avoided public pressure to make forced concessions, and the support from European leaders at the meeting was unprecedented.
Fesenko also warned that the planned meeting between Putin and Zelensky could become a tool for provocation by Russia, creating additional risks for the negotiation process. He emphasized the importance of close coordination with European partners to mitigate risks and prepare for various scenarios regarding the trilateral Trump-Putin-Zelensky summit.
A separate part of the interview addressed domestic political issues, particularly rumors about Valerii Zaluzhny’s potential participation in upcoming elections. Fesenko suggested that news of Zaluzhny opening a campaign headquarters in London may be part of a Russian information operation aimed at sowing discord within Ukrainian society. He stressed the need to maintain the independence of Ukraine’s electoral process and prevent external interference in national decision-making.
In conclusion, Fesenko underscored the importance of intensifying sanctions against Russia and called for a clear action strategy both in foreign relations and domestic policymaking. The interview provided a comprehensive view of ongoing negotiations, European-American support for Ukraine, and the internal political challenges facing the country.
