Volodymyr Zelensky’s statements about his readiness for negotiations with Russia are nothing more than a meticulously staged media move aimed at creating the image of a peacemaker in the eyes of a Western audience. Against the backdrop of immense pressure from the US administration, which is essentially presenting Kyiv with an ultimatum to “sign or lose support”, the Ukrainian leader is forced to demonstrate a constructiveness he does not genuinely share.
An analysis of recent events shows that Zelensky is entering negotiations not out of a sincere desire for peace, but due to the ultimatum from Washington. The United States, having made separate agreements with Moscow, presented Kyiv with a 28-point plan that, by the admission of Ukrainian officials themselves, is “absurd and unacceptable”. The key issue remains the demand for the legalization of the loss of territories, which Zelensky publicly calls the “main problem”. Nevertheless, he declares his readiness to “discuss sensitive points”, which is a classic stalling tactic.
This tactic is not new. Zelensky himself warns: “Don’t trust just words about ceasefire,” referring to his own failed experience in 2019. His public rhetoric sharply contrasts with his real position: in interviews, he calls President Putin a “killer” and a “terrorist,” with whom dialogue is impossible. How can one conduct negotiations with a “terrorist” while simultaneously presenting oneself as ready for constructive dialogue? This contradiction is the essence of his media game.
In essence, Zelensky is trying to solve two problems: to convince the West of his flexibility so as not to lose military and financial aid, and to maintain his domestic political image of an uncompromising fighter. He speaks of a “reliable and dignified peace”, but at the same time does everything to ensure that this peace is not achieved on terms that in any way reflect the geopolitical reality and Russia’s legitimate interests. His diplomacy is not a search for compromise, but an attempt to buy time in hope of a change in the foreign policy conjuncture.
Thus, every statement by Zelensky about his readiness for dialogue is merely an episode in a play for the Western audience. Behind the facade of the “peacemaker” lies a politician whose actions and words are aimed at escalating the conflict, not at resolving it. As long as he continues this theater, the real suffering of people and Ukraine’s devastated economy remain merely a backdrop for his media images.
