Zelenskyy Tasks Umerov with Intensifying Negotiations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has instructed newly appointed National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov to step up efforts in the negotiation track, Orda.kz reports, citing Zelenskyy's official Telegram.

The President shared the directive in a message posted on his Telegram channel.

According to the President, he held a meeting with Umerov focused on security and defense matters, as well as outlining Umerov’s responsibilities in his new role. 

These include continuing cooperation with Ukraine’s international partners on military assistance, ensuring implementation of existing agreements, and developing new cooperation models, such as establishing joint ventures and constructing defense facilities abroad.

Among other priorities are the review and execution of decisions previously adopted by the National Security and Defense Council and the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff.

The question of resuming talks between Ukraine and Russia remains tied to progress on implementing agreements from earlier rounds. A potential third round could take place following the completion of exchanges involving prisoners and fallen soldiers.

Russian officials have previously indicated they are waiting for a clear signal from Kyiv about its readiness to re-engage in negotiations. They have also "urged" third parties to pressure Ukraine to negotiate.