“Ukraine has always said it is ready to negotiate and is trying to find any way to end this war,” the president said in a joint news conference with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nechammer.
“It is unfortunate that, in parallel, we are seeing preparations in the east for serious, decisive battles, as some people say,” Zelensky said of the forthcoming Russian offensive.
“We are ready to fight and, in parallel, look for ways to end this war through diplomacy,” he added.
The last direct talks took place on 29 March, during which the Ukrainian delegation confirmed its readiness to accept neutrality in exchange for security guarantees from third parties.
“In the east and south, we are seeing a concentration of weapons, equipment and troops about to occupy another part of our territory,” Zelensky said.
The outcome of Russia’s offensive, if it happens, will depend on “a number of factors”, including the strength of the Ukrainian army, how quickly our partners can deliver arms to us and Russia’s leader. [Vladimira Putina] wishes go further, “said Zelensky.
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