Volodymyr Zelenskyy: U.S. Proposed Trilateral Talks with Ukraine and Russia in Florida

The situation around the port of Odesa in southern Ukraine is ‘difficult,’ admits Volodymyr Zelenskyy, following Russia’s intensified attacks along the Black Sea coast. He emphasized that Russia has ramped up strikes aiming to cut off Ukraine’s access to the Black Sea. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy stated that elections cannot be held in territories under Russian occupation, stressing that voting can only proceed with guaranteed security. His government has begun preliminary work to enable overseas Ukrainians to participate in future elections. Zelenskyy also revealed that the U.S. proposed trilateral talks involving Ukrainian, American, and Russian officials in Miami, where Russian envoys are meeting with U.S. representatives about Washington’s peace plans for Ukraine. He noted that European officials could also attend, calling such a joint meeting meaningful once Ukraine is briefed on prior discussions. He rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s suggestion that Moscow might halt attacks if Ukraine holds elections, asserting that Putin has no say over Ukraine’s electoral process or timing. In tandem, Russian forces launched drone and missile attacks on the Pivdennyi port and energy infrastructure near Odesa, escalating assaults on critical supply routes toward Moldova. Despite ongoing U.S.-led diplomatic efforts—including planned U.S.-Russia talks in Florida—Moscow continues its relentless campaign against key Ukrainian ports vital for grain exports and fuel supplies.