Zelensky says Ukraine Backed U.S. Peace Proposals to Expedite Deal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv supported U.S. peace proposals aimed at ending the war with Russia, as President Donald Trump seeks to resolve the conflict before November’s midterm elections, Reuters reported.

Zelensky added that Ukraine was ready for elections and a referendum, but noted that a ceasefire and proposed U.S. security guarantees have not yet been finalized. (Photo: Володимир Зеленський Facebook)

In an interview with The Atlantic, Zelensky said Ukraine was willing to hold both a presidential election and a referendum on a peace deal, but would not accept terms detrimental to the country’s interests.

“The tactic we chose is for the Americans not to think that we want to continue the war,” Zelensky said.

“That’s why we started supporting their proposals in any format that speeds things along.”

He added that Ukraine was ready for elections and a referendum but noted that a ceasefire and proposed U.S. security guarantees have not yet been finalized.

Zelensky has sought to repair relations with Washington after a February 2025 Oval Office meeting with Trump and Vice President JD Vance reportedly devolved into a heated exchange.

He also rejected a proposal to announce votes on Feb. 24, the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion.