Trump–Zelenskyy–Putin meeting would harm Ukraine’s interests, says diplomat

Ukrainian diplomat Oleksandr Khara shared his opinions on Espreso TV.

“I believe such a meeting is highly unlikely, because from the perspective of Russian propaganda and Putin’s view, there is no legitimate government in Ukraine. We understand this is nonsense, but they try to stick to that line. Secondly, Putin wants a direct meeting with Trump, and most importantly, to decide our fate and the fate of Europe behind our backs,” Khara noted.

He added that there are now both analysts and MAGA-aligned politicians who claim the world will be divided into three centers — the U.S., China, and Russia — and everyone else will have to accept this new format of dividing the world into spheres of influence.

“I also don’t believe that such a meeting, if it takes place, could bring any results. It’s clear that we have red lines, we cannot agree to giving up our territories, especially in legal terms. It’s also clear that we currently lack the strength to liberate these territories by force. I’m absolutely certain that Zelenskyy and his team have no illusions about reclaiming the territories through diplomacy,” the expert emphasized.

He noted that for Russia, giving back what they have stolen and seized is painful, even though it doesn’t rightfully belong to them.

“I don’t think such a meeting could bring any results. Honestly, it wouldn’t be in our favor, because Putin could portray Zelenskyy and Ukraine as unwilling to make peace, claiming that he is offering a lasting peace, but that Ukraine must accept the so-called realities on the ground. That’s unacceptable for us. Overall, Zelenskyy is acting very wisely by cornering Putin further, showing that he’s not ready to end the war and is looking for excuses to avoid such a meeting,” Khara concluded.

• On May 28, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he is ready to hold a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian leader Vladimir Putin.