Zelensky defiant: Peace in Ukraine not up for negotiation
Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his gratitude to the European Union, emphasizing the significance of Ukraine gaining equal opportunities. After a video conference organized by the British Prime Minister, he highlighted the importance of this step. Earlier, he had openly shared his emotions while discussing the situation in the Kursk region and intelligence reports from the front lines.
President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized on Saturday that peace in Ukraine must not come with conditions. He also stated that Russia's stance on the deployment of peacekeeping forces within Ukrainian territory should not be considered. His remarks followed a video conference organized by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Ukraine.
He pointed out that Kyiv "is not only talking with Europe, but concrete actions are being taken - assistance to Ukraine."
The concentration of Russian forces indicates that Moscow intends to continue ignoring diplomacy. Russia's prolongation of the war is obvious. The Ukrainian president emphasised that we are ready to provide our partners with all the real information about the situation at the front, in the Kursk region, and along the border.
Zelensky referred to intelligence data
He reported that new intelligence data had been received as the flow of information had resumed. He clarified that Ukrainian forces remained in the Kursk region and dismissed claims of their encirclement as false.
According to him, Russia aims not only to surround Ukrainian troops there but also to expand its presence on Ukrainian territory. Emphasizing the significance of this development, he warned allies about Russia’s intentions and its efforts to maximize its military presence.
"I got a bit carried away. I am grateful"
He emphasised that he doesn't want to argue with partner countries.
Zelensky stated that he did not wish to engage in disputes with Ukraine’s partners. He pointed out that they have satellites, allowing them to track the movements of Russian forces and their intended destinations. He suggested that analyzing this data would clarify the situation, speaking with evident emotion.
Zelensky stressed that such actions are not carried out by those genuinely seeking peace, referring to Russia’s conduct. Acknowledging that he had spoken passionately, he expressed gratitude to the European Union, Ursula von der Leyen, and António Costa for making significant decisions.
He highlighted the importance of the £130 billion allocated to strengthening Europe's defense capabilities, emphasizing that this initiative would give Ukraine equal opportunities. He expressed hope for its successful implementation and sincerely appreciated the EU's support.
Russians do not want peace
As Zelensky assessed, the Russians show they do not want peace in the war against his country.
He highlighted that a ceasefire proposal, put forward by the United States, has been under consideration since Tuesday. It calls for a complete halt to hostilities on land, at sea, and in the air. This initiative suggests a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire. He stressed that, free from violence, this period could provide a real opportunity to negotiate all aspects of a lasting peace.
