Zelensky exclusion concerns
What are the concerns about Ukraine's involvement in the US-Russia negotiations?
The clip highlights a significant diplomatic development where the US and Russia agreed to four broad principles for negotiations about the Ukraine war during talks held in Saudi Arabia. However, a major concern emerges regarding Ukraine's absence from these discussions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky explicitly stated he wasn't invited to participate in these negotiations, raising questions about the role of both Ukraine and European nations in a peace process that directly impacts them. This absence is particularly troubling given that Ukraine is the primary victim of what many acknowledge as Russian aggression in the conflict, suggesting potential issues with negotiation strategies where key stakeholders appear to be sidelined.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)
CBS News
00:41 - 01:03
What is President Zelensky's stance on diplomatic negotiations regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict?
President Zelensky has taken a firm position that he will not accept any diplomatic outcome regarding the ongoing conflict with Russia without Kyiv's direct involvement in the negotiations. This stance comes amid reports of meetings between U.S. and Russian diplomats in Riyadh, which potentially signal a shift in U.S. policy toward Russia. Zelensky's insistence on Ukrainian participation highlights his concern for protecting Ukraine's sovereignty and security interests in any potential agreements. As diplomatic discussions potentially prepare for a Trump-Putin summit, the Ukrainian leader remains adamant that decisions affecting Ukraine's future cannot be made without Ukrainian officials at the table.
Watch clip answer (00:07m)
WION
00:14 - 00:22
How is the Ukraine peace plan being received initially?
The initial rollout of the Ukraine peace plan is causing some fear in Europe. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has firmly stated that Ukraine will not accept a peace deal without direct involvement in negotiations, creating tension following President Trump's discussions with both Zelenskyy and Putin. Despite these concerns, the peace plan is still described as a work in progress. Key figures like Secretary Hegseth have expressed skepticism about NATO membership for Ukraine and recovering pre-2014 borders, while emphasizing that input from European leaders and Ukraine itself is essential for success.
Watch clip answer (00:09m)
CBS News
02:29 - 02:38
How are European leaders reacting to President Trump speaking with Putin?
European leaders are expressing alarm over President Trump's call with Putin, primarily because it remains unclear whether Ukraine will have equal representation in peace negotiations regarding its own future. CBS News Pentagon reporter Eleanor Watson notes that this uncertainty is causing more concern than Secretary Hegseth's statements. The core issue troubling European leaders is the potential exclusion of Ukraine from having a direct seat at the negotiation table, which would prevent the nation from participating in decisions about its territorial sovereignty and post-war arrangements.
Watch clip answer (00:16m)CBS News
01:47 - 02:03
What are European leaders demanding regarding Ukraine's involvement in peace negotiations with Russia?
European leaders are insisting that Ukraine must have direct input in any peace negotiations with Russia. Following President Trump's announcement about meeting with Putin potentially in Saudi Arabia without Ukrainian President Zelensky, several European officials voiced concerns about Ukraine being excluded from talks about its own future. The head of the European Union foreign affairs team emphatically stated that "any deal behind our backs won't work," highlighting Europe's position that Ukraine's participation is non-negotiable. European leaders believe that for peace talks to be legitimate and successful, both Europe and Ukraine need to be actively involved in the negotiation process.
Watch clip answer (00:25m)CBS News
02:04 - 02:29
What is Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's stance on peace negotiations with Russia?
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly stated that he will not accept any peace deal with Russia unless Ukraine is directly involved in the negotiations. This position was reinforced following President Trump's conversations with both Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin about ending the war. Zelenskyy's insistence on Ukraine's participation in peace talks highlights his commitment to ensuring his country has a voice in determining its own future amid the ongoing conflict. This stance comes as discussions about potential peace plans evolve among international leaders, with Ukraine's role in the process remaining a critical point of contention.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)CBS News
00:00 - 00:14