Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed readiness to engage in negotiations to end the nearly three-year-long war with Russia but emphasized that the United States and Europe must be involved in any talks.

In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Zelensky reiterated his willingness to seek a diplomatic resolution, stating, "If people believe we must move to the diplomatic track, and I believe we are ready to move to the diplomatic track, there must be the U.S., Europe, Ukraine, and Russia." He also said he would be open to a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin if it was necessary to bring peace to Ukraine.

Despite Zelensky’s willingness for dialogue, the Kremlin has rejected the prospect of four-way negotiations, arguing that it is "too early" for such discussions. Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed Zelensky as an "illegitimate" leader, citing the expiration of his official term in May 2024.

Ukraine has countered this claim, asserting that elections cannot be held under martial law. Zelensky, who was elected in 2019 with 73% of the vote, insisted that wartime elections would require constitutional and legal changes. Meanwhile, Keith Kellogg, a special envoy for Ukraine and Russia under former U.S. President Donald Trump, suggested that Washington favors holding elections in Ukraine by the end of the year, provided Kyiv reaches a truce with Russia.

For the first time in months, Zelensky provided updated casualty estimates, revealing that Ukraine has suffered approximately 45,100 deaths and 390,000 injuries. He estimated Russian losses at 350,000 dead and between 600,000 and 700,000 injured, with many soldiers missing in action.

The Ukrainian leader also stressed the importance of security guarantees to prevent future Russian aggression. While Ukraine continues its bid for NATO membership, he questioned the level of international military support available in the meantime. "What will be defending us against this evil for this whole time?" he asked. "What support package? Which missiles? Will we be given nuclear weapons?"

Zelensky also urged Western nations to maintain economic pressure on Russia, warning that easing sanctions could increase the risk of a second invasion. His remarks come as Russia continues to make territorial advances in eastern Ukraine.

While diplomatic discussions remain uncertain, Ukraine remains steadfast in its demand for strong international backing and clear security assurances to prevent further escalation of the conflict.