Zelenskyy Seeks Peace Talks, Highlights U.S. Drone Tech Interest Amidst Shifting Global Focus

Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has affirmed his readiness for a new round of trilateral peace negotiations aimed at ending Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, but stressed the need for agreement between Washington and Moscow regarding the location and timing of the meeting. This comes as the international community’s attention is increasingly diverted by the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Peace Talks Stalled, Focus Shifts to Middle East

Zelenskyy stated that the United States had proposed hosting the next meeting between American, Ukrainian, and Russian negotiating teams, which include U.S. Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, but Russia has so far declined to send a delegation. “We are waiting for a response from the Americans. Either they will change the country where we meet, or the Russians must confirm the U.S.,” Zelenskyy said during a media briefing on Saturday. “We are not blocking any of these initiatives. We aim for a trilateral meeting to take place.”

However, the U.S.-sponsored talks have been postponed due to the outbreak of the Iran war on February 28, following U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and the subsequent spread of conflict across the region. This has drawn international focus away from Ukraine’s struggle to repel the Russian military.

Concerns Over Depleted Air Defense Stockpiles

Zelenskyy also voiced concerns that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could lead to a depletion of air defense stockpiles crucial for Ukraine’s defense against Russian missile strikes. He indicated a “particularly high” risk of this occurring. He discussed potential alternatives to U.S.-made Patriot batteries with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Friday, specifically exploring the viability of SAMP/T systems for intercepting ballistic missiles. Ukraine, he stated, would be “first in line” to test any suitable alternative.

U.S. Interest in Ukrainian Drone Technology

The Ukrainian President addressed recent comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who asserted that the United States does not require Ukrainian drone technology. Zelenskyy revealed that Washington has repeatedly contacted Ukraine seeking assistance for unspecified purposes and support for American personnel. These requests, he said, originated from various U.S. Military institutions and were directed to Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense and other military leaders.

“All our institutions received these requests, and we responded to them,” Zelenskyy stated. He further disclosed that Ukraine had offered Washington a defense cooperation deal last year, valued between $35 billion and $50 billion, which would grant the U.S. Access to technology from approximately 200 Ukrainian drone, AI, and electronic warfare companies. The agreement stipulated that half of all production would be allocated to partners, with a primary focus on the United States.

According to Zelenskyy, American military officials had shown considerable interest in the proposal, and Trump himself had initially expressed receptiveness. “We received a message from them, and directly from the president as well, that they are interested,” Zelenskyy told reporters. “We did not sign the document with President Trump. I do not have an answer as to why. Perhaps it will happen later, but I am not sure.”

Fifth Year of Conflict Marked by Resilience

As Ukraine enters the fifth year of the war, Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia has failed to achieve its objectives and that Ukraine remains resolute in its defense of independence. The Kremlin, however, maintains that its military operation will continue until its goals are met. CBS News reported that both Zelenskyy and the Kremlin acknowledged the ongoing nature of the conflict.

The Associated Press reported on Zelenskyy’s meeting with French President Macron on March 13, 2026, in Paris.