US President Donald Trump said on 13/2 that Russia wanted a deal, urging his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky to "act quickly, otherwise you will miss a great opportunity." Trump's comments set the stage for Zelensky's lighthearted remark.

During a discussion at the Munich Security Conference in Germany today, the moderator asked President Zelensky if he felt pressure from the White House chief. Zelensky responded with a shrug before taking the microphone.

"A little", the Ukrainian president replied, sparking laughter from the audience.

President Zelensky noted his understanding of the US leader's signals, suggesting they might aim to facilitate a trilateral meeting in Switzerland. He emphasized Ukraine's willingness to engage in negotiations, stating, "We can act, provided we do not lose our dignity."

The Kremlin announced on 13/2 that Russian, US, and Ukrainian officials would meet in Geneva, Switzerland next week. The discussions aim to end the conflict between Moscow and Kyiv, with Kremlin advisor Vladimir Medinsky leading the Russian delegation.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to speak during a discussion session at the Munich Security Forum in Munich, Germany on 14/2. *Photo: AP*

Previously, Russia, the US, and Ukraine conducted two rounds of trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, which yielded no breakthroughs. Those earlier discussions only resulted in an agreement on a prisoner exchange between Moscow and Kyiv.

President Zelensky today expressed hope for the Geneva talks to be more serious and substantive. He voiced concern that the US "too often" asked Ukraine for concessions instead of Russia. Nevertheless, he hoped the US would continue participating in peace talks, creating opportunities for Europe to play a larger role in the effort.

Nhu Tam (According to Reuters, AFP)