Zelensky Urges Strong US Action Against Russia Amid Ceasefire Proposal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism on Wednesday during a press conference in Kyiv, emphasizing the need for the United States to take decisive action against Russia should the Kremlin reject a proposed 30-day ceasefire. The ceasefire, which Ukraine has accepted following a proposal from Washington, represents a potential step towards peace amid ongoing conflict.
Zelensky stated, "I understand that we can count on strong measures regarding the Russian side. I do not yet know the details, but we are talking about sanctions and strengthening Ukraine." His comments reflect a blend of hope and cautious anticipation regarding the response from both Russia and the U.S.
During the press conference, the Ukrainian president highlighted the Trump administration's foreign policy motto of 'peace through strength', expressing a desire for the U.S. to adhere to this principle if Russian President Vladimir Putin decides to forgo the ceasefire. Zelensky remarked, "Peace is sought through strength. If Russia shows that it is prepared for the U.S. offer, I believe that there will be appropriate solutions. If it is not, we hope the U.S. side will demonstrate exactly what they said."
Zelensky was firm in asserting that while no one in Ukraine trusts their Russian counterparts, it is equally crucial to counter narratives questioning Ukraine's commitment to ending the conflict. "I speak very seriously and it is important to me to end the war. I want the president of the United States to see that," he conveyed.
When asked about the feasibility of the one-month ceasefire accepted by Ukraine, Zelensky responded that its success hinges entirely on Russia's willingness to pursue peace, stating, "It depends 100% on Russia and whether Putin is interested in peace or wants to continue killing people."
The Ukrainian president has also reiterated his willingness to sign an economic agreement proposed by the U.S., aimed at recovering investments made in supporting Ukraine and financing the reconstruction of the nation through the exploitation of its natural resources. "We are ready to sign the framework agreement as a first step. We have always said this," he declared, further explaining that Ukraine accepted the ceasefire proposal during a recent meeting in Jeddah on Tuesday.
Zelensky identified the need for relevant security guarantees for Ukraine if a truce is ultimately agreed upon, underlining that the possibility of future meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump must be geared towards achieving positive outcomes for the ongoing conflict.
Moreover, Zelensky warned that Russia might attempt to create a rift between Ukraine and the United States, suggesting that the recent discussions in Saudi Arabia have thwarted Moscow’s plans in that regard. He made it clear that Ukraine would not recognize territories occupied by Russia, underscoring the sacrifices made by the Ukrainian people. "Our heroes have given their lives for this," he stated.
In conclusion, Zelensky ruled out any future meetings with Trump unless they are explicitly focused on delivering positive results for those suffering due to the conflict. "I want any meeting with the American president to be positive; we all must prepare for that," he emphasized, reinforcing his commitment to pursuing a resolution to the crisis.
Related Sources: