Zelensky: Closer to Peace, Calls for Stronger US Support to End the War
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed optimism about the country's prospects for peace, stating that Ukraine is now closer to concluding the ongoing war against Russia. In a recent interview with ABC News, Zelensky emphasized the importance of steadfastness, declaring, "I believe we are closer to peace than we think. We are closer to the end of the war. We just have to be very strong, very strong."
Zelensky underscored the need for increased support from the United States, asserting that decisive action from Washington could potentially accelerate the end of the military conflict. In a post on Telegram, he remarked, "Decisive action now could accelerate the just end of Russian aggression against Ukraine next year."
Expanding on this sentiment, Zelensky has made an appeal to Ukraine's allies, outlining a "Victory Plan" that seeks to bolster Ukraine's position in the conflict. He noted, "That is why we ask our friends, our allies, to strengthen us. It is very important."
According to Zelensky, only by adopting a strong stance can Ukraine effectively pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the aggression. He stated, "Putin is very afraid."
In a bold military maneuver aimed at regaining initiative and negotiating peace on equal terms, Ukrainian forces recently conducted attacks in the western Russian region of Kursk. This offensive commenced on August 6 and has seen Ukrainian troops occupy several Russian villages, actions Zelensky attributes to exposing the vulnerabilities of Putin's position.
Despite ongoing advances by the Russian army towards its objectives in the Donbas region, Zelensky remains confident. He voiced, "He is very afraid. Why? Because his people saw that he cannot defend all of his territory."
The Ukrainian president framed the conflict as part of a broader struggle against what he called an imperialistic war waged by Russia. In contrast, Putin has framed the invasion as a defensive move against what he perceives as an aggressive stance from the West.
As the situation unfolds, Zelensky's calls for support from the United States and allied nations could prove pivotal in shaping the course of the war, potentially bringing Ukraine closer to a resolution in the coming year.
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