**Ukraine Warns Against Peace Deal Without Country’s Involvement**
President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned against a peace deal being negotiated by the US and Russia without Ukraine’s involvement. He made this clear in an interview with German media network ARD.
Zelensky said that any peace deal agreed upon by the US and Russia should not affect Ukraine. He emphasized that his country will not accept a deal that is negotiated behind its back. This comes ahead of a meeting between US and Russian delegates in Saudi Arabia to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.
**Ukraine Not Invited to Meeting**
Zelensky revealed that Ukraine had not been invited to the meeting, and he found out about it through media reports. He described any negotiations on Ukraine without Ukraine’s involvement as “futile”.
The US has announced plans to host a bilateral meeting with Russia, followed by a meeting with Ukraine, and then talks between both parties. However, Zelensky has expressed concerns that this process may lead to unfavorable terms for Ukraine.
**Ukraine Will Not Give Up Territory**
Zelensky also warned against a peace plan that included giving up Ukrainian territory. He emphasized that his country will not give up its land in a permanent ceasefire agreement.
The President of Ukraine also rebuked comments made by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who stated that it is unlikely for Ukraine to restore its 2014 borders in any negotiations with Moscow. Zelensky described these comments as “pleasant” for Russian President Vladimir Putin and undermining Ukraine’s leverage before peace talks have even started.
**Security Guarantees Needed**
Zelensky concluded by emphasizing the need for security guarantees from the US, saying that “of course, we will reclaim everything”. He noted that ceasefire negotiations must include security guarantees from the United States.
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