Ukrainian Lawmaker Lesia Vasylenko: Peace Talks Without Ukraine's Presence Are Unacceptable

Ukrainian Lawmaker Lesia Vasylenko: Peace Talks Without Ukraine's Presence Are Unacceptable

February 18, 2025: Ukrainian lawmaker Lesia Vasylenko told the BBC that Ukrainians are "concerned" that the expected talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin "may take a wrong turn."

The 37-year-old MP from the Holos (Voice) party further stated that Kyiv has made it clear that "there can be no negotiations, and especially no agreements, signed without Ukraine's participation."

She added, "Hopefully, we will be heard. And this is not just for the sake of Ukraine, but for the sake of long-lasting peace and the whole of Europe." She also emphasized that Europe must play an important role in the negotiations.

"This war... is happening on Ukrainian territory; Ukraine is part of Europe. It's happening in Europe."