Russia releases statement after Donald Trump read out letter sent to him by Zelenskyy

GettyImages-2202527975.jpgTrump and Zelenskyy are failing to see eye-to-eye. Credit: Andrew Harnik / Getty

He also emphasized Ukraine’s gratitude toward the U.S., stating: “We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence.”

The letter also referenced the rare earth minerals agreement that was supposed to be signed during Zelenskyy’s visit – before tensions derailed the discussion. Zelenskyy assured Trump that Ukraine was still “ready” to sign the deal at any time.

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Trump seized on the opportunity to push for diplomatic efforts, stating: “It’s time to end this senseless war. If you want to end wars, you have to talk to both sides.”

He even claimed that “serious discussions” with Russia had already taken place, though details remain unclear.

The announcement has been met with cautious optimism from Moscow, with Kremlin officials welcoming the idea of peace talks – but raising questions about how they would proceed, per the Independent.

trump (22).jpgZelenskyy could return to the negotiation table. Credit: China News Service / Getty

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Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reacted to Zelenskyy’s letter, saying: “We are positive. The question is with whom to sit at the negotiating table.”

However, he pointed out a major obstacle: a 2022 decree signed by Zelenskyy himself, which explicitly banned negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“For now, the legal ban by the Ukrainian President holding talks with the Russian side is in force. Overall, the approach is positive, but the details have not changed yet,” Peskov noted.

Meanwhile, despite the talk of peace, Russia launched a drone attack on Odesa on March 4, killing a 77-year-old woman and injuring three others. Ukrainian forces retaliated, claiming to have shot down 115 out of the 181 drones fired in the overnight assault.

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One of the biggest bombshells from the recent developments is Trump’s decision to pause all military aid to Ukraine – a move that has drastically shifted U.S. foreign policy.

GettyImages-2190865151.jpgPeskov has welcomed the idea of peace talks. Credit: Contributor / Getty

Since Russia’s invasion began three years ago, the U.S. has provided approximately $65.9 billion in military assistance, but that support may now be in jeopardy, per the Guardian.

Peskov described the decision as “the best contribution to the cause of peace,” suggesting that without U.S. aid, Ukraine may be forced to come to the table.

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