Zelensky Criticizes U.S. Envoys for Skipping Kyiv in Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday criticized U.S. peace envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for conducting multiple rounds of talks in Moscow without ever visiting Kyiv, describing the omission as disrespectful amid ongoing efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

In a wide-ranging interview with Ukrainian outlet ICTV, Zelensky addressed questions about the possibility of the envoys traveling to Ukraine. He preemptively tempered expectations, stating that media should not treat any potential arrival as a "special sensation" since the sides remain in contact. "I believe their visit is needed not by us, but by them," Zelensky said. "It is not respectful to travel to Moscow and not come to Kiev. It's simply not respectful. I understand that our logistics are more complicated. But everyone is traveling."

Zelensky emphasized flexibility on location, adding that if the envoys prefer not to visit Kyiv, meetings could occur in other countries. His primary focus, he said, is achieving results, particularly a ceasefire along the current line of contact. Moscow has rejected such a truce, arguing it would allow Ukraine to rebuild its military and secure additional Western arms.