Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of showing no genuine willingness to end the war in Ukraine, describing Moscow’s approach to peace negotiations as a “parody” of a real desire to achieve peace.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a European Union summit in Brussels on October 16, Zelenskyy said Russia was not interested in holding meaningful peace talks. His remarks came as European leaders discussed continued support for Ukraine amid persistent Russian attacks and uncertainty over the future of international assistance.
Zelenskyy Questions Putin’s Commitment to Peace
Zelenskyy said Putin was using words that suggested a response to diplomatic efforts without demonstrating a genuine intention to end the conflict.
“Putin does not want peace talks at the moment, in any form,” Zelenskyy said, according to Reuters.
He added that Moscow’s position appeared to be a “parody of a genuine desire to end the war.”
The Ukrainian president’s comments reflected Kyiv’s continuing doubts about Russia’s willingness to pursue a negotiated settlement. Moscow, meanwhile, has accused Ukraine of undermining the possibility of restarting peace negotiations.
Ukraine Seeks Continued European Support
Zelenskyy’s remarks came during a summit in Brussels where European leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine. Kyiv is seeking continued military and financial assistance as the war continues to put pressure on the country’s economy, infrastructure and energy system.
Addressing European leaders, Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s projected war-related costs for 2027 would reach €155 billion and called for at least €70 billion in additional support for defence, weapons and resilience.
The request highlights the financial challenge facing Ukraine as it prepares for another winter amid repeated attacks on energy infrastructure.
Russian Attacks Add to Concerns
The diplomatic discussions are taking place against the backdrop of continued Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Reuters reported that drone attacks in Kharkiv killed three people, while strikes elsewhere left large numbers of people without electricity.
Ukraine has repeatedly argued that sustained international support is necessary to defend its territory and protect civilians. European governments are also considering how to help Kyiv address its financial needs and maintain its defence capabilities.
Peace Prospects Remain Uncertain
Zelenskyy’s latest comments underline the continuing divide between Kyiv and Moscow over the prospects for negotiations. Russia has blamed Ukraine for obstructing efforts to resume talks, while the Ukrainian leadership says Moscow has not demonstrated a genuine commitment to ending the war.
There was no indication in Zelenskyy’s remarks that a new peace agreement had been reached. The future of negotiations will depend on whether the two sides can make progress on the central issues separating them.
