Zelensky criticizes US envoys for neglecting Kyiv visits amid conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his discontent over US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner visiting Moscow but not Kyiv, calling it 'disrespectful.' In an interview with a Ukrainian outlet, Zelensky stated, "It's disrespectful [for them] to come to Moscow and not Kyiv, it's just disrespectful." He acknowledged the complexities of logistics but suggested that if the envoys were unwilling to visit, they could meet in other countries.

Witkoff, who has visited Moscow eight times and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, has never made an official trip to Kyiv. Zelensky noted that earlier in April, there were plans for Witkoff and Kushner to visit Ukraine, but those plans fell through amid escalating US-Israel tensions over Iran. He remarked, "But... in any case, for us it is important to continue cooperating with the Americans."

The backdrop to this diplomatic tension is the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has persisted since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Ceasefire talks have recently gained momentum, but significant issues remain unresolved, particularly regarding the status of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region and the return of Ukrainian children deported by Russia. Kyrylo Budanov, Zelensky's chief of staff, indicated that a compromise has yet to be found, stating, "We are looking for a compromise between two completely polar positions."

The current focus of US diplomacy appears to be shifting towards the Middle East, particularly in relation to Iran, which may leave Ukraine feeling sidelined in its ongoing conflict with Russia. This shift could potentially weaken Ukraine's negotiating position as it seeks to assert its interests in the ongoing talks.

What to watch: The upcoming decisions from the US regarding its diplomatic engagement with Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict and negotiations with Iran.