On January 4, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made several key statements regarding upcoming talks, the challenges of organizing elections during wartime, internal political updates, and the world's response to Venezuela's political crisis.
Zelensky emphasized the necessity of online voting, especially for soldiers and citizens abroad. He noted that if legislation had changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, it would now be easier to organize elections. The president’s priority is to secure voting rights for front-line military personnel.
The president also outlined a plan for international negotiations, expected to culminate in a leaders’ summit in the United States. On January 5–6, military chiefs are set to meet in Europe, likely in Paris, followed by meetings with European country leaders. Agreed documents will then be delivered to the US president, with further talks scheduled for February. Zelensky said a swift end to the war in January is unlikely.
He underlined the importance of pressure on Russia to achieve compromise, highlighting the US’s central mediation role in current talks, but also noted that Europe could assume leadership if Washington’s stance changes. The main negotiation topic remains security guarantees for Ukraine, including support from Western coalitions, European integration, and bilateral deals with the US.
Zelensky commented on recent personnel changes in government, including a new head of the State Border Guard Service and sanctions against companies and individuals linked to Russia’s defense sector.
On domestic policy, he mentioned intensified mobilization measures and a boost in domestic production of FP-1 and FP-2 drones for the military.
The second part focused on Venezuela: the arrest of President Maduro, dozens killed in attacks, interim leadership by Delcy Rodriguez, and world leaders’ mixed reactions to the US-led operation. Positions of Russia, the EU, US, Spain, China, and Latin American countries were discussed.
Zelensky stressed that global political processes and responses to events in Venezuela could affect Ukraine’s situation, both concerning the ongoing war and international support.