Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz held a private, closed-door meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on 23 September 2024. The meeting was conducted in a tête-à-tête format, without interpreters, according to Serhiy Nikiforov, the spokesperson for the Ukrainian President.
“The leaders decided to conduct the meeting in a complete tête-à-tête format, even without interpreters, absolutely behind closed doors,” Nikiforov emphasized during a comment for national TV. He added, “Consequently, they chose such a format, and nothing public can be disclosed from this meeting.”
President Zelenskyy, in a brief statement following the meeting with Chancellor Scholz, said they discussed “how to bring a just peace closer” and “maintain unity,” as well as preparations for the second Peace Summit.
A press release provided little details about the meeting, saying the leaders discussed the security situation in Ukraine, particularly on the battlefield. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Germany for its support and significant contribution to strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities, especially in providing air defense systems. It was noted that since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Germany has provided various support totaling 35 billion euros.
During their talks, Zelenskyy and Scholz agreed on further cooperation within international formats and discussed joint steps towards achieving a just peace. This included the implementation of decisions from the first Peace Summit and preparation for the second Summit. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine would not support any alternative peace initiatives that could divide the unity of the international community.
This meeting took place during Zelenskyy’s visit to the United States, where he intends to present a “Victory plan” to US President Joe Biden and presidential candidates.
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