Zelenskyy Says Meeting With US Envoy Restores Hope for Security Deal

Key Takeaways:

• Zelenskyy and U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg held a significant meeting in Kyiv on February 20.
• The meeting centered on the battlefield situation, POW returns, and security guarantees for Ukraine.
• U.S. and Russian officials held peace talks without Ukraine’s participation two days prior.
• Ukraine emphasizes the need for a lasting peace to prevent future Russian aggression.
• A planned press conference was canceled at the request of the U.S. side.

Renewed Optimism for Security Deal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on February 20 that his meeting with U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg has revitalized prospects for a security deal between Ukraine and the United States. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, this engagement brings a renewed sense of optimism for Ukraine’s future security landscape.

“We must and can ensure that peace is strong and lasting—so that Russia can never return with war,” Zelenskyy stated. “Ukraine is ready for a strong, effective investment and security agreement with the President of the United States. We have proposed the fastest and most constructive way to achieve results.”

Key Discussion Points

During their detailed conversation in Kyiv, Zelenskyy and Kellogg focused on three critical areas:

• Battlefield Situation: Assessing the current state of the conflict and exploring strategies to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
• Return of Prisoners of War: Addressing the humanitarian issue of Ukrainian POWs and efforts to secure their release.
• Security Guarantees: Seeking concrete assurances from the United States to ensure Ukraine’s long-term security and sovereignty.

“Economic and security must always go hand in hand, and the details of these agreements matter—the better they are structured, the greater the results,” Zelenskyy emphasized, highlighting the interconnectedness of economic support and security measures.

Ukraine’s Exclusion from Peace Talks

The meeting came just two days after U.S. and Russian officials held peace talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 18. Notably, Ukrainian representatives were not present at these discussions. The exclusion has raised concerns in Kyiv about being sidelined in negotiations that directly affect the nation’s future.

Cancelled Press Conference

A joint press conference was initially scheduled to follow the meeting between Zelenskyy and Kellogg. However, Ukrainian presidential spokesman Serhii Nykyforov announced that the U.S. side requested its cancellation. No specific reasons were provided, leaving observers speculating about undisclosed developments or diplomatic sensitivities.

Ongoing Martial Law and Political Implications

Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has been under martial law. According to Ukrainian law, this status prohibits the holding of elections, adding layers of complexity to the nation’s governance during wartime. The continuation of martial law reflects the persistent challenges Ukraine faces in restoring normalcy.

Path Forward in Pursuit of Peace

As Ukraine continues to navigate the complexities of war and diplomacy, the meeting with U.S. envoy Kellogg represents a crucial step toward solidifying international partnerships. Zelenskyy’s emphasis on a strong and lasting peace underscores his administration’s commitment to finding effective solutions and securing a stable future for the country.