On August 16, Ukrainian President Volodymyr called on his allies to increase sanctions against Russia if a tripartite meeting between him, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin did not take place.
Speaking on social network X, Mr. Zelensky affirmed that sanctions are an effective tool to promote Russias participation in the summit with the US and Ukraine, and expressed his desire for a quick end to the conflict.
Mr Zelensky also reiterated his demand for Ukraine to participate in all negotiations on the country's future, especially on territory, in the context of President Trump's idea of "land exchange" as part of a potential deal.
Not stopping there, the Ukrainian leader continued to call for security assurance from allies in Europe and even the US - the country that has repeatedly affirmed that it will not provide military support to Kiev.
Responding to Mr Zelensky's call, on August 16, the UK and the European Union (EU) issued a joint statement, saying they were "re ready to maintain pressure on Russia" and would continue to increase economic sanctions until a "fair and long-term peaceful world" was achieved.
However, observers say Mr. Zelensky's somewhat harsh stance could lead to a collapse of potential negotiations to find peace for Ukraine between the parties involved, while Russia has always expressed its readiness for dialogue.
Mr. Zelensky's statements came just a day after President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a summit in Alaska (USA) on August 15, focusing on finding a peaceful solution for Ukraine.
President Trump later described his talks with Mr. Putin as "impossible", and said the two leaders "agreed on many things" but did not disclose details.
He only said that the two sides were "more than ready for the end" of the conflict, but noted that Ukraine must always be in a state of agreement with all potential peace agreements.
The US leader also said that he would attend the tripartite summit if that happened. "Both of them want me to be there, and I will be there," President Trump said.
However, up to now, the Kremlin has not confirmed any such format. Meanwhile, President Putin said the tripartite meeting was feasible but stressed the need to "create conditions for the meeting to take place".
