Volker: Direct contact between presidents Zelensky and Putin needed

"There is a need for direct contact between the Ukrainian and Russian governments. There is certainly support from the US and partners in the 'Normandy format.' But there must be direct contact. Presidents Putin and Zelensky recently had a telephone conversation, and I believe that this step facilitated the meeting in the "Normandy format" in Paris and subsequent negotiations in Minsk. That is exactly how it should be. I do not think that the participation of external actors can help here," Volker said in an interview with Tyzhden.ua Ukrainian online media outlet.

According to the American diplomat, establishing direct contact between the presidents of Ukraine and Russia and their representatives to agree on further developments is "the surest way to achieve a positive outcome."

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