Lula and Zelensky meet at G7 to push diplomatic solution for Ukraine war

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Évian‑les‑Bains, France, on 17 June 2026. Their 40‑minute discussion focused on the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, exploring possibilities for a cease‑fire and a broader diplomatic settlement. Lula urged a more effective role for the United Nations Security Council and suggested that Brazil could help coordinate contacts among its permanent members.

Zelensky responded positively, saying the meeting was “positive” and that he had conveyed the Russian public’s attitudes toward diplomatic commitments. He accepted Lula’s proposal and asked the Brazilian leader to act as an intermediary with Russian President Vladimir Putin, hoping to revive stalled negotiations. Both leaders agreed to maintain regular contact in the coming weeks, saying they were “tired of the conflict” and eager to pursue a peace path.

The talks underscore Brazil’s emerging role as a potential diplomatic bridge in the Ukraine‑Russia war, involving major powers such as the United States, France, the United Kingdom, China and Russia itself.