Zelensky revealed the reasons for the ban on negotiations with Russia at the beginning of the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a joint press conference with the President of Moldova Maia Sandu announced an important decision to ban any negotiations with Russia at the onset of the full-scale invasion. The head of state noted that this measure is a response to the separatist processes initiated by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelenskyy stated that Putin attempted to create several channels of influence through separatists and representatives of other countries. However, the president quickly halted such 'shadow' negotiations. He also emphasized that the Russian side tried to pressure Ukraine through various communication channels, including the Ukrainian parliamentary corps, European colleagues, and the United States. Zelenskyy was forced to make such a decision as he could not control all these negotiation platforms. He also mentioned the existence of secret communication channels of some Ukrainian institutions but did not want to talk about it publicly.

Zelenskyy stressed that he made this decision as the leader of the state and it is completely justified, although it was not liked by Putin. With this decision, he made uncontrolled contacts with the Russian side impossible, blocking potential channels of influence and manipulation during the war.