Zelensky and Biden discuss de-escalation efforts

Ukrainian and U.S. Presidents, Vladimir Zelensky and Joe Biden, discussed de-escalation efforts in all negotiating formats, Zelensky’s office said on Sunday after their telephone call.

"Special attention was focused on steps taken in all negotiating formats to deescalate the situation and reach peace. Vladimir Zelensky noted the importance of the United States’ efforts toward consolidating international support for Ukraine," it said.

Zelensky reassured the U.S. leader that the Ukrainian capital city and other large cities safely protected. "We will stop any escalation. The Ukrainian capital, Kiev, other cities in our country - Kharkov and Lvov, Dnepr and Odessa - are under safe protection," he was quoted as saying.

According to Zelensky, the Ukrainian side "understands all current risks and is ready for any developments."

According to the presidential office, the Ukrainian leader expressed hope that the United States’ support will help prevent the spread of panic moods. He also invited Biden to pay a visit to Kiev and expressed hope that his visit would promote de-escalation. "I am sure you visit to Kiev in the coming days, which are most important for the stabilization of the situation, will be strong signal and will promote de-escalation," Zelensky was quoted as saying.