Zelensky condemns Russian maneuvers, praises EU support
Zelensky acknowledged speaking with strong emotions but expressed deep gratitude to the European Union. He emphasized that Ukraine would have equal opportunities and underscored the significance of this step. His remarks followed a video conference organized by the British Prime Minister. Earlier, he had spoken passionately about the situation in the Kursk region and the latest intelligence reports from the front lines.
President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that peace in Ukraine must be unconditional and that Russia’s stance on the deployment of peacekeeping forces within Ukrainian territory should not be considered. He made these remarks on Saturday following a video conference on Ukraine organized by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
He pointed out that Kyiv is not only talking with Europe but also taking concrete actions, such as providing assistance to Ukraine.
The buildup of Russian forces suggests that Moscow has no intention of engaging in diplomatic efforts and is clearly set on prolonging the war. The Ukrainian president stressed that his country is prepared to share accurate information with its partners regarding the situation at the front, in the Kursk region, and along the border.
Zelensky referred to intelligence data
New intelligence data is being received again as the flow of information has resumed. The Ukrainian president clarified that their forces remain in the Kursk region, dismissing claims of their encirclement by Russian troops as false propaganda from Putin. He stressed that Russia aims not only to surround Ukrainian forces there but also to expand its military presence on Ukrainian territory. Highlighting the significance of this development, he cautioned allies about Russia’s broader strategic intentions.
"I got a bit carried away. I am grateful"
He emphasized that he doesn't want to argue with partner countries.
Zelensky did not wish to argue with Ukraine’s partners, emphasizing that they have their own satellites to monitor the movements and destinations of Russian troops. He suggested that analyzing this data would provide clarity on the situation, speaking with noticeable emotion.
Zelensky pointed out that those genuinely seeking peace do not engage in actions like Russia. Acknowledging that he had spoken with strong emotions, he expressed deep gratitude to the European Union and Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa for making significant decisions.
He highlighted the importance of the $160 billion allocated to strengthening Europe's defense capabilities, emphasizing that Ukraine would gain equal opportunities through this initiative. He expressed hope for its successful implementation and sincerely thanked the EU for its support.
Russians do not want peace
As Zelensky assessed, the Russians show that they do not want peace in the war against his country.
He highlighted that since Tuesday, a ceasefire proposal has been under consideration, calling for a complete halt to hostilities in the air, at sea, and on the front lines. This initiative, put forward by the United States, proposes a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire. He stressed that this period, free from violence, could create a genuine opportunity to negotiate all aspects of lasting peace.
