Zelensky Pushes Back on Rubio: Cannot Negotiate with Russia While It Attacks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on October 8, 2026 rejected US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's description of Ukraine peace efforts as a diplomatic dead end, saying one cannot simultaneously hold talks with Russia and declare them hopeless. Zelensky spoke to reporters in Pryluky, the city where a Russian missile had killed 22 people — including five children — the day before.

Zelensky demands US pressure on Russia

The Ukrainian president called on the United States to step up pressure on Russia and help Ukraine gain an advantage in the air. He said Ukraine is open to diplomacy but that it requires a partner willing to negotiate in good faith — something he said Russia has not demonstrated.

Zelensky also announced that Ukrainian negotiators would travel to the United States on Friday and Saturday, October 9–10, for talks with the American side.