Zelensky states that Ukraine must focus on using diplomacy to bring the war to an end next year

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has emphasized that Ukraine must do everything possible to ensure the war with Russia concludes next year through diplomacy.

In a radio interview broadcast on Saturday, Zelensky acknowledged the challenging situation on the battlefield in eastern Ukraine, where Russia is making progress. He also stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not interested in negotiating a peace deal.

Zelensky revealed that US legislation prevented him from meeting with President-elect Donald Trump before his inauguration in January. The Ukrainian leader clarified that he would only engage in direct talks with Trump, rather than through any intermediary or advisor.

"As the president of Ukraine, I will only take a conversation with the President of the United States seriously, with all due respect to any entourage or people around him," he said.

"On our side, we must do everything we can to ensure this war ends next year, and ends through diplomatic means," Zelensky added.