The President of the USA, Trump, has stated that an agreement that can lead to peace in Ukraine is near. Kristersson views positively Saturday's meeting with Ukraine's President Zelenskyj.
But I dare not guess what consequences it may have, says Kristersson, who was present at Pope Francis' funeral ceremony.
The relationship between the presidents has been strained, but Saturday's meeting has been described as constructive.
Kristersson also reacts to Russian claims that all Ukrainian forces have been driven out of the Russian region of Kursk, which was later denied by Ukraine.
Everything that weakens Ukraine's position in peace negotiations is bad and everything that strengthens Ukraine's position is the opposite. That's why we've been so careful to increase the delivery of materials to Ukraine now, so that they enter as strong as possible, says Kristersson and adds:
This has been going on for a while, I don't think one should exaggerate the significance of it.
Trump, who wants to act as a mediator between Kyiv and Moscow, has recently stated that the Crimea, annexed illegally by Russia, will "remain Russian". Kristersson says that he unequivocally stands on Ukraine's side.
I think it's problematic that the USA uses Russian narratives about Crimea. I believe everyone understands that ultimately, negotiations will be required and you don't win everything in a negotiation, but you can't start a negotiation by giving up everything you must relinquish.
