Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky spoke by phone with British prime minister Rishi Sunak, sharing a clear picture of Ukraine’s immediate priorities and the path forward for international support. In the brief public notes accompanying the call, Zelensky described how he had just returned from visiting frontline positions and how those experiences shaped his update to Sunak on the needs that matter most for Ukraine’s defenders and for the protection of civilian life. The conversation focused on strengthening the capabilities of Ukrainian troops and reinforcing the country’s air and missile defense, along with other critical security provisions that Kyiv considers essential to sustaining resilience during ongoing pressures from the war. The two leaders also talked about broader macro-financial assistance to Ukraine and the practical steps that could be taken in the near term to align with major international gatherings and summits where Ukraine seeks constructive support and clear commitments from allies.
Beyond immediate military and financial support, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s longer-range ambitions in security and integration. The Ukrainian president underscored Kiev’s interest in advancing cooperation with Western institutions and partners, including potential track two or formal discussions on joining the North Atlantic Alliance and pursuing closer alignment with European Union standards and processes. The dialogue with Sunak also touched on the importance of a cohesive strategy to advance Ukraine’s peace efforts, with Zelensky reiterating the need to implement the so-called peace formula as a framework for resolving the conflict and restoring stability across the region. This approach aims to address the core grievances that have driven the war, while offering a practical path toward reconciliation and reconstruction once basic principles are respected on the ground.
In recalling the peace formula first presented in late 2022, Zelensky and Sunak explored how its ten concrete points could be translated into action on the ground. The coalition of requirements centers on the unconditional withdrawal of any foreign forces from Ukrainian territory, the full and verified release of prisoners and deported citizens, and strict adherence to the United Nations Charter. The discussion emphasized that these steps are not merely symbolic but foundational to establishing a durable and enforceable ceasefire, restoring sovereignty, and rebuilding trust between Kyiv and its neighbors. The formulation also calls for guarantees that conflict-related abuses are addressed and that international observers are able to verify progress in implementing each element. The emphasis remains on a fair, enforceable, and verifiable process that can gain broad consensus among international partners while preserving Ukraine’s right to defend itself and determine its own future.
Previous conversations underscored the ongoing assessment of Ukraine’s security landscape and the front’s evolving dynamics, with Zelensky noting that discussions with Ukraine’s military leadership were part of a comprehensive effort to map out strategic responses to the stalemate. The aim has been to align operational plans with diplomatic objectives, ensuring that frontline realities inform any proposed resolutions or pauses in fighting. The dialogue with defense leaders focused on practical measures to enhance readiness, sustainment, and morale for Ukrainian forces, as well as to coordinate international support for training, equipment, and intelligence sharing. Taken together, these discussions reflect a holistic approach to safeguarding national sovereignty while engaging the international community in a constructive and coordinated manner.