Ukraine's presidential adviser says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President-elect Donald Trump share the belief that military power is essential to begin peace talks with Russia.

Mykhailo Podolyak sat down with NHK in Kyiv on Tuesday. He said Moscow can only be brought to the negotiating table through force. He added that this is where Zelenskyy and Trump see eye to eye.

Podolyak expressed hope for continued US military assistance, saying less support for Ukraine would embolden Russia to act brazenly on the international stage. He added that it would look strange if Russia was defeating the alliance of democracy.

Regarding Trump's indication that China could play a role in achieving a ceasefire, Podolyak said China's efforts to mediate cannot be relied upon for now because it sees an increasing opportunity to profit through trade with Russia.

Podolyak said North Korean soldiers taking part in combat in the western Russian region of Kursk -- where Ukraine has been staging cross-border attacks -- will not directly affect Ukraine's strategic decisions.

But he noted the presence of the third country gives Russia a numerical advantage in a certain area, and said he wants the international community to react to it.

Podolyak said NATO membership is the most desirable option for Ukraine to prevent future Russian aggression and ensure its security.
But he added that Zelenskyy would also positively consider any proposals for bilateral alliances with countries such as the United States and Britain.