Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected suggestions that U.S. President Donald Trump can compel him to negotiate with Russia. In a recent statement, Zelensky laughed off the idea, emphasizing that Ukraine is an independent nation and no one can force them to take any action. He stated, “Ukraine is an independent country and no one can force them to do anything.” 

This remark comes amid ongoing tensions between the two leaders over the handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. President Trump has previously suggested that Zelensky should not be involved in negotiations to end the war with Russia, stating that Ukraine needs to have elections and implying that Zelensky’s popularity was waning. In contrast, Zelensky has consistently maintained that any negotiations must include Ukraine’s participation, adhering to the principle of “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” 

The relationship between Trump and Zelensky has been marked by public disagreements and diplomatic challenges. In February 2025, during a meeting in the Oval Office, the two leaders had a heated exchange over the handling of the war. Trump criticized Zelensky for his approach, while Zelensky defended Ukraine’s sovereignty and decision-making authority. 

Zelensky’s recent comments underscore Ukraine’s stance on maintaining control over its foreign policy and resisting external pressures to negotiate terms that do not align with its national interests. As the conflict continues, Ukraine remains steadfast in its position that any peace agreements must be negotiated directly with its involvement and consent.