Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the formation of a negotiating team tasked with representing Ukraine in future peace talks.
The delegation will be led by Andriy Yermak, Head of the Presidential Office, and will include Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.
This decision, formalized through a presidential decree, marks a significant step towards seeking a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The composition of the team reflects Zelensky’s intention to approach the negotiations with a strategic and multidisciplinary outlook. In addition to the ministers, the delegation may include academic experts and government officials to ensure comprehensive and competent representation.
Yermak will also have the authority to modify the team’s composition, subject to approval by the Foreign Minister.
The announcement comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension, with the international community closely watching every move from both Kyiv and Moscow. Zelensky emphasized that talks could only begin once Russia presents a clear and credible position. In the meantime, the United States and other international partners continue to pressure for a temporary ceasefire as the first step towards de-escalation.
The appointment of the negotiating team represents a signal of Ukraine’s openness to a diplomatic solution, but the path to peace remains uncertain. With the support of international partners, Zelensky hopes to build a dialogue that can lead to a just and lasting peace.