Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva met on Wednesday with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenski on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, where he once again stressed that only a “negotiated solution” can end the war with Russia.

According to the Brazilian presidency, the meeting was held at Zelenski’s request and described as “constructive.” 

Lula reaffirmed that there is no military way out of the conflict and highlighted the need for talks that take into account “the security concerns of both sides.” He recalled the dialogue process launched in Istanbul last May, as well as discussions mediated by the United States in Washington and Alaska. 

The Brazilian leader also underlined the creation of the “Group of Friends for Peace,” launched jointly by Brazil and China, aimed at reopening diplomatic channels. Lula argued that agreeing on conditions for a ceasefire would be “a crucial first step” toward lasting peace. 

For his part, Zelenski shared updates from the battlefield and thanked Lula for his efforts to push for dialogue. Yet tensions have marked their relationship.

From the start of the conflict, Lula avoided placing sole blame on Russian president Vladimir Putin, Brazil’s partner in the BRICS bloc, raising skepticism in Kyiv. 

On several occasions, Zelenski dismissed the mediation initiative by Brazil and China, calling the Brazilian stance “original.” Nevertheless, the New York meeting opens the door to a possible rapprochement, at a time when the international community is searching for alternatives to an endless military confrontation. 

Through this encounter, Lula reinforced his global image as a promoter of diplomacy, while Ukraine continues to endure a protracted war with no clear resolution in sight.