Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has voiced concerns regarding Russia's intentions in the ongoing conflict, declaring that the Kremlin is not serious about concluding the war. During an interview with the Financial Times, Zelenskyy emphasized that Russian President Vladimir Putin is merely engaging in a charade, which he describes as 'playing games' with U.S. President Donald Trump. He suggests that this tactic is aimed at undermining Ukraine's negotiating position while giving the impression that Russia is open to discussions about peace.

Zelenskyy pointed out that the Russian government is adept at creating the facade of being willing to pursue peace, yet in reality, they continue to undermine Ukraine's sovereignty. He referenced an alleged offer made to Trump by the Russians, which included a substantial economic cooperation package, rumored to value around $12 trillion, but the proposal contained terms that are detrimental to Ukraine, thereby revealing Russia's true intentions.

The implications of Zelenskyy's remarks are significant, as they underscore the complexities of international diplomacy amidst the ongoing war. By calling out the Kremlin's tactics, Zelenskyy not only aims to strengthen Ukraine's position but also to alert international partners about the deceptive maneuvers Russia employs in global negotiations. His statements serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance regarding the Kremlin's actions as they attempt to reshape the narrative around the war and their commitments to peace talks.