Zelenskyy and Tusk discuss US trilateral talks proposal and winter energy defence

Trilateral talks and diplomatic coordination

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a telephone discussion with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on 5 October to align diplomatic strategy and discuss international negotiation formats. Zelenskyy briefed Tusk on ongoing preparations for proposed trilateral meetings at the technical level between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. Washington proposed organizing these technical discussions before the end of October, a timeline Zelenskyy revealed on 4 October during a joint press appearance with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The Ukrainian leadership stated that Kyiv is prepared to engage in the process without raising objections, provided the American government successfully secures Russian participation. Zelenskyy noted that mutual coordination among European partners remains necessary to ensure negotiation readiness across all sides.

There are no obstacles on our part, but it is important that the American side prepares on its side and ensures Russia's readiness.

Energy grid protection and plans for in-person summit

The bilateral conversation between Zelenskyy and Tusk also centered on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as the country prepares its power grid for the coming winter. Both leaders assessed the technical needs of Ukraine's utility network along with other sensitive security matters that could not be fully resolved remotely. In response to these complex operational issues, the two officials agreed to arrange a face-to-face meeting in the near future. This planned encounter follows an earlier bilateral meeting between Zelenskyy and Tusk held in Ukraine's Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast on 18 September. Zelenskyy emphasized that European unity is the primary mechanism capable of checking Russian military advances across the continent.

Every day Russia chooses escalation instead of peace. We are very grateful to Poland for receiving the necessary help in such a difficult time. Today I spoke with Prime Minister Donald Tusk and personally thanked him for solidarity and support.

Munitions coordination and Warsaw diplomatic stance

Defence logistics formed another central focus of recent exchanges between Kyiv, Warsaw, and other European capitals. Ukrainian defence authorities are working to secure a daily supply of 5,000 to 6,000 rounds of 20 mm ammunition for Ukraine's F-16 combat aircraft fleet. Zelenskyy indicated that Ukrainian officials engaged the Polish government regarding this ammunition supply on 4 October, with subsequent discussions planned with French President Emmanuel Macron. Meanwhile, Poland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a statement on 4 October affirming Warsaw's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Polish foreign ministry pledged to continue applying pressure on the Kremlin alongside international allies, while firmly responding to dangerous Russian actions. Polish officials also confirmed that the Polish embassy in Kyiv will maintain its normal operations despite Russian warnings urging foreign diplomats to leave the capital.