Zelensky says prohibition on Russia discussions doesn’t apply to him
(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has asserted that a 2022 law banning negotiations with Russia does not apply to him personally, despite his recent call for a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelensky is expected to travel to Türkiye this week for what would be the first direct peace talks with Moscow since negotiations were halted in 2022.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Zelensky dismissed suggestions that his efforts to resume dialogue violate Ukrainian law. The ban, introduced in September 2022 and signed by Zelensky himself, prohibits any talks with Russia while Putin remains president. It was originally intended to reinforce Ukraine’s commitment to a military solution at the time.
Zelensky argued that the restriction was aimed at preventing unauthorized talks by other Ukrainian officials, especially those with separatist leanings or unofficial channels. “It’s a Russian narrative that I cannot speak with Putin,” he said. “Only I can negotiate on matters of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Critics, including Russian officials, have cited the law as proof that Kiev is not serious about diplomacy. Meanwhile, questions around Zelensky’s legitimacy have emerged, as his presidential term expired last year and elections are barred under Ukraine’s wartime constitution. Despite this, he remains in office and has labeled his critics as pro-Kremlin.
Russia has called Zelensky’s political status an internal issue for Ukraine but has warned that any agreements he signs may be challenged for legal validity. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized Zelensky, calling him “a dictator without elections,” while advocating for U.S.-brokered peace talks.
The U.S. has reportedly engaged both sides in confidence-building steps, including a temporary ceasefire on energy infrastructure. Russia claims it honored the truce, while accusing Ukraine of violating it multiple times.
American officials support moving to direct negotiations and are expected to observe the Istanbul talks. Ukraine has urged the West to impose additional sanctions if Putin does not personally attend. Moscow has yet to confirm its delegation.
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