Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Prez Zelenskyy Warns Of World War III If Negotiations With Vladimir Putin Fail

"I'm ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war," President Volodymyr Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. (Source: Getty Images)

New Delhi: Amidst the rising tension between Ukraine and Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Sunday that he is "ready for negotiations" with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but that failure to do so would entail "a third World War," CNN reported.

"I'm ready for negotiations with him. I was ready for the last two years. And I think that without negotiations we cannot end this war," he was quoted by CNN in its report.

"I think that we have to use any format, any chance in order to have a possibility of negotiating, the possibility of talking to Putin. But if these attempts fail, that would mean that this is a third World War," he added.

 

In recent days, Zelensky has advocated further negotiations as Russia's invasion of Ukraine enters its fourth week. In a video message released on Saturday, Zelensky urged dialogue to take place "immediately," warning that failure to do so would result in "great losses" for Russia.

 

"We have always insisted on negotiations. We have always offered dialogue, offered solutions for peace. And I want everyone to hear me now, especially in Moscow. It's time to meet. Time to talk. It is time to restore territorial integrity and justice for Ukraine," he said.

 

Russia Ukraine Conflict

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began about a month ago, an estimated 6.5 million people have been displaced within the nation, while another 3.2 million have fled owing to safety concerns.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had previously rejected the US offer to evacuate Kyiv to safety, has garnered worldwide acclaim for spearheading the struggle against Russia's attack. Many ordinary citizens have also volunteered to join the military in order to assist the country in its fight against heavyweight Russia.

(With Inputs From CNN)