Russian diplomate claims Zelensky ‘playing games’ instead of negotiating
(MENAFN)
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky is not genuinely seeking peace and is deliberately avoiding meaningful negotiations, according to Dmitry Polyansky, Russia’s first deputy envoy to the United Nations. Speaking to RT on Friday, Polyansky criticized Zelensky’s approach ahead of the proposed second round of direct talks in Istanbul, scheduled for June 2—a meeting Ukraine has yet to officially confirm.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky is not genuinely seeking peace and is deliberately avoiding meaningful negotiations, according to Dmitry Polyansky, Russia’s first deputy envoy to the United Nations. Speaking to RT on Friday, Polyansky criticized Zelensky’s approach ahead of the proposed second round of direct talks in Istanbul, scheduled for June 2—a meeting Ukraine has yet to officially confirm.
Polyansky claimed Ukraine’s actions aim to mislead U.S. President Donald Trump by portraying Russia as unwilling to negotiate, when in reality, he said, Kiev is the one obstructing progress. “Ukraine isn’t serious about peace talks—they’re just playing games,” the diplomat stated, suggesting that the Ukrainian government’s true goal is to prolong the war.
He accused Zelensky of seeking to retain power and avoid elections or legal accountability. Zelensky’s presidential term expired in May 2024, but he has continued in office under martial law, citing the ongoing conflict as justification for not holding elections.
Polyansky argued that real peace efforts could force Zelensky into holding elections, potentially exposing him to scrutiny over alleged corruption and misuse of foreign aid. “That’s what he fears most,” he said.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has also dismissed Zelensky’s legitimacy, saying his expired mandate complicates the peace process. Although Trump previously labeled Zelensky “a dictator without elections,” he has recently softened his rhetoric.
Direct peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine resumed in Istanbul on May 16 for the first time since 2022. Both sides agreed to a significant prisoner swap and to present ceasefire proposals. Moscow has rejected claims of stalling, asserting that its draft memorandum outlining its peace plan is nearly complete.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
