Zelenskyy says Ukraine ready, urges pressure on Russia in Riyadh negotiations

He noted that a proposal for an unconditional ceasefire has been on the table since March 11, yet Russia persists in striking Ukrainian targets.  

“I’ve spoken with [Defense Minister] Rustem Umerov, who briefed me on the meeting and the course of negotiations,” said Zelenskyy.

“Our team is working in a fully constructive manner, and the discussion is quite useful. The work of the delegations continues. But no matter what we’re discussing with our partners right now, Putin must be pushed to issue a real order to stop the strikes—because the one who brought this war must be the one to take it back.”

Zelenskyy underscored Russia’s role as the sole aggressor delaying peace. 

“Since March 11, a proposal for an unconditional ceasefire has been on the table—and these attacks could have already stopped,” he said.

“But it is Russia that continues all this. Every night, every single day, it carries out the most cynical strikes.”

The president emphasized that Russia is the only country that is dragging out the war, and pressure on it must increase.

“After the last meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, it has become absolutely clear to the entire world: Russia is the only one dragging this war out, the only one that brought it here—and the only one who needs it to continue,” the head of state added.

“There must be more pressure on Russia to stop this terror. And that depends on all our partners—the U.S., Europe, and others around the world,” Zelenskyy said.

The Riyadh talks on March 23 involve technical discussions, including proposals to protect energy facilities and critical infrastructure, Umerov noted earlier. 

A source in Ukraine’s Presidential Office told public broadcaster Suspilne that the agenda might also touch on Black Sea issues. 

“Ukraine has already accepted an unconditional ceasefire stance,” the source said.  

“Now, it’s crucial that Russia stops saying ‘no’ and setting useless conditions—something the Americans can ensure.”