The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, stated that all negotiations regarding the resolution of the war in Ukraine will be conducted with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.

He noted that all specifics will only be discussed during the negotiations, as reported by The Guardian.

"I think realism is an important part of the conversation that has been lacking... but simply pointing to realism, for example, that borders will not revert to what everyone would like to see in 2014, is not a concession to Putin. It is an acknowledgment of the harsh realities on the ground after significant losses, first by the Ukrainians, then by allies, and then the realization that the peace achieved through negotiations will be a kind of demarcation that neither side desires," he stated.

The minister remarked that neither Zelensky nor Putin will get everything they desire.

Additionally, Hegseth emphasized that his statement regarding the "unrealistic nature of Ukraine's NATO membership" reflects Trump's position.

The Pentagon chief noted that issues related to further assistance to Ukraine, including the possibility of reducing or increasing its volume, could become part of the negotiations for resolution.

When asked if he could guarantee that Ukraine would not be forced into a deal, he replied that it is "not my decision, ultimately," as the negotiations will be led by Trump.

Hegseth pointed out that the president has spoken with both Putin and Zelensky, and "any negotiations will involve both." He added:

"It's just a cheap political argument to say, 'Oh, we've left all the cards off the table in negotiations, acknowledging some realities that exist on the ground.' President Zelensky understands the realities on the ground, President Putin understands the realities on the ground, and President Trump as a mediator, as a negotiator, also understands this dynamic."

He suggested that the promise of U.S. involvement in Ukraine’s natural resources could also serve as an indirect guarantee of security. He mentioned that investment relations "in the long term... will be much more tangible" and another way to demonstrate solidarity.

"This is just one of many other opportunities that this president will leverage in these high-stakes negotiations," added the Pentagon chief.

According to him, Putin is ready for negotiations because he reacts to strength and sees Trump as a strong opponent.

"Any assumption that President Trump is doing anything other than negotiating from a position of strength is, in fact, ahistorical and false," Hegseth noted.

The War in Ukraine - An Opportunity for Negotiation

Earlier, Volodymyr Zelensky assured that Kyiv will not accept any bilateral negotiations between the U.S. and Russia regarding peace in Ukraine that occur without Ukrainian participation. The head of state stated that the American leader is aware of his position.

Zelensky added that according to Trump, he wanted to speak with both leaders from Ukraine and Russia simultaneously.