On February 14, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr zelensky met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany. This meeting came after Vance had criticized European leaders for their stance on free speech adn democracy during his address at the conference, stating that “there is a new sheriff in town” in reference to U.S. President Donald Trump [2[2[2[2].
During their meeting, Zelensky and Vance discussed the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Zelensky expressed that he did not see a “ready-made plan” from the United States to end the war in Ukraine and emphasized the need for more dialog and cooperation to develop a plan to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin and bring an end to the war [1[1[1[1]. Zelensky also stated that Ukraine desires peace but requires real security guarantees from European leaders [1[1[1[1].
Vance described the conversation as “fruitful” and noted that there are “things to track” in a timely manner. The United States aims to achieve a “lasting, lasting peace” between Russia and Ukraine, according to Vance, but he did not specify how this would be accomplished. Vance mentioned that the conversation would continue and progress in the coming days, weeks, and months [3[3[3[3].
both leaders agreed to have further discussions in the near future to continue their dialogue and work towards resolving the conflict [3[3[3[3].
Zelensky and Vance: Navigating the Path too Peace in Ukraine
On February 14, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference. This encounter came after Vance’s critical remarks about European leaders’ stance on free speech and democracy, where he declared “there is a new sheriff in town” in reference to President Donald Trump. During their meeting, Zelensky and Vance discussed the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia and strategies for achieving a lasting peace.
Senior Editor: President Zelensky, thank you for joining us. You recently met with Vice President Vance. Can you tell us what was discussed regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine?
President Zelensky:
Vice President Vance and I had a very direct and productive discussion about the war in Ukraine. While I appreciate the U.S. support for Ukraine, I emphasized that a ”ready-made plan” from the united States to end the war is not yet in place. We need more dialogue and cooperation to develop a comprehensive plan to stop the aggression of President Putin and bring an end to this devastating conflict.
Senior Editor: The message of needing more dialogue seems central to your vision for peace.What specific type of dialogue do you believe is crucial in these negotiations?
President Zelensky: Ukraine desires peace, but peace must be achieved on terms that ensure our security and sovereignty. Real security guarantees from European leaders are essential for us to feel confident about the future. Without such guarantees, any attempt at peace is simply putting a Band-Aid on a gaping wound.
Senior Editor: Vice President Vance described his conversation with you as “fruitful.” What gives you hope that meaningful progress can be made towards a peaceful resolution?
President Zelensky: Both the Vice President and I agreed to continue these discussions in the coming days, weeks, and months. I am optimistic that continued dialogue,along with increased support from our international partners,will ultimately pave the way towards a lasting peace.
Senior Editor: Thank you, president Zelensky, for your time and insights.
This interview provides crucial insight into President Zelensky’s perspective on the peace process for Ukraine. His emphasis on dialogue, security guarantees, and continued international support paints a clear picture of what Ukraine needs to move towards a peaceful future. The importance of continued communication between Zelensky and Vance, along with other international leaders, highlights the importance of ongoing diplomacy in navigating this complex situation.