Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday labeled his recent high-profile public quarrel with US President Donald Trump as "regrettable" and reaffirmed Ukraine's interest in participating in peace negotiations as soon as possible to work towards a long-lasting solution.
On a lengthy tweet on X, Zelensky commented on his Oval Office meeting with Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, respecting the strained argument and calling to restore things as they should have been.
His declaration was just one day after the Trump administration announced that it would suspend all aid to Ukraine until it had determined if Zelensky was truly serious about ending the conflict.
"None of us want an endless war," Zelensky wrote. "Ukraine is ready to negotiate as quickly as possible to move closer to lasting peace. No one wants peace more than the Ukrainian people. My administration and I are prepared to work under President Trump's leadership to make a peace that lasts."
Zelensky also described possible first steps toward de-escalation with Russia.
"We stand ready to act quickly to end the war. The initial moves could include releasing prisoners and a prompt truce in the skies—prohibiting missiles, long-range drones, and energy and civilian infrastructure-targeting bombs—and a cease-fire at sea, if Russia responds in kind. Then, we would move quickly through the next phases and work with the U.S. to achieve a solid final accord."
In recognition of complaints from the Trump administration that Ukraine had not been adequately grateful for U.S. support, Zelensky went out of his way to emphasize his appreciation.
"We really appreciate all that the United States has done to help Ukraine's sovereignty and independence. We also recall the turning point when President Trump gave Ukraine Javelin missiles. We are very thankful for this."
He also touched on the much-touted confrontation during the Oval Office encounter, where he clashed with the Trump administration's diplomacy and, in return, was sharply criticized by Trump and Vance for lack of appreciation.
"Friday's White House meeting with us did not go as planned. It's regrettable things occurred this way. Now we have the opportunity to set things straight. We're calling for a future of constructive dialogue and cooperation."
Zelensky finished his press release by stating Ukraine is prepared to conclude a deal with the U.S. on its rare earth mineral reserves.
We are ready to sign this accord at any moment, in whatever appropriate form, since we believe it is one step towards closer security and sound assurances. I truly hope that it will be effective," he said.
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