Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has reaffirmed his determination to resist Russian demands for territorial concessions, insisting that his country will prevail in the ongoing war.
In an interview at government headquarters in Kyiv, Zelensky rejected proposals for a ceasefire requiring Ukraine to cede parts of Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. He described such moves as “abandonment” that would endanger residents and weaken the nation’s position.
“Giving up territory would divide our society,” Zelensky said. “It might satisfy Russia temporarily, but they would recover and continue their aggression.”
Zelensky framed Ukraine’s struggle as part of a broader global challenge, warning that stopping Russian President Vladimir Putin today is crucial for worldwide security. Victory, he said, means preserving Ukraine’s independence and restoring normal lives for its people.
The president highlighted the practical limits of military action, noting that reclaiming all occupied lands immediately would risk millions of lives. He stressed the need for international support, including weapons and long-term security guarantees from allies, before considering elections or other political steps.
Zelensky also addressed tensions with the United States under President Donald Trump, who has pressed Ukraine to make territorial concessions. While acknowledging Trump’s unpredictability, Zelensky said that institutional guarantees, rather than individual leaders, are essential for Ukraine’s security.
Despite internal challenges and corruption scandals that reshaped his team last year, Zelensky maintains high approval ratings domestically. He continues to push for advanced military aid, including the ability to manufacture weapons like Patriot air defense systems under license.
On the prospects for ending the war, Zelensky said Ukraine is pursuing multiple parallel strategies to counter Russia, underscoring that success depends on persistent pressure on Moscow.
“Stopping Putin is our goal,” he said. “God bless. God bless, we will be successful.”
