ISTANBUL

Ukrainian and British diplomatic teams held a “highly productive” meeting in the capital Kyiv to discuss joint efforts to accelerate peace and diplomatic initiatives, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday.

On X, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the UK’s support and reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to achieve a “just and lasting peace” as soon as possible.

The Ukrainian leader said he will visit Saudi Arabia, and is set to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday.

He added that Ukrainian diplomatic and military representatives would remain in the country for a meeting on Tuesday with US officials.

“On our side, we are fully committed to constructive dialogue, and we hope to discuss and agree on the necessary decisions and steps,” he said, stressing that Ukraine has been pursuing peace “from the very first second of this war.”

Zelenskyy reiterated that “realistic proposals are on the table,” urging swift, effective action to bring an end to the conflict, which started in February 2022.

The Ukrainian team for the upcoming talks will include Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, as well as Andriy Yermak, head of the Presidential Office, and Pavel Palis, his deputy.

Ukraine has been engaging in diplomatic efforts with various partners to secure international support for its peace initiatives and strengthen strategic alliances.

There has been added pressure since US Donald Trump returned to the White House in January, with a renewed push to end the war as well as denying US aid to Ukraine.