In an interview with Fox News, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine required broader security guarantees to defend itself against further Russian aggression. Zelenskyy also appealed directly to U.S. President Donald Trump, urging him to stand firmly with Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
He stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin was not afraid of Europe and was determined to continue his actions.
Zelenskyy’s comments come amid ongoing tensions between neighbours Russia and Ukraine, with the Ukrainian leader calling for more substantial military and political assistance to deter further Russian expansion.
Why It’s Important?
Trump, who took office on January 20, has promised to end the Russia-Ukraine war soon, without saying how. Aides have suggested that a deal could take months.
Trump has expressed willingness to speak to Putin about ending the war, a contrast with the administration of Democratic former President Joe Biden, who shunned the Russian leader.
Trump’s election win in November had sparked hope of a diplomatic resolution to end Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine that began in February 2022, but it also led to fears in Kyiv that a quick peace deal could come at a high price for Ukraine.
Key Quotes
“We want him (Trump) to be on the side of justice, on the side of Ukraine,” Zelenskiy said in the interview aired on Tuesday night. “Putin is not afraid of Europe.”
Zelenskiy added Ukraine cannot recognize Russia’s occupation, but it preferred a diplomatic resolution.
The White House had no immediate comment.
Putin Afraid Of Strong Leaders?
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy took to X to make several allegations against Putin and Russia. “Today, Putin once again confirmed that he is afraid of negotiations, afraid of strong leaders, and does everything possible to prolong the war. Every move he makes and all his cynical tricks are aimed at making the war endless,” part of his tweet read.
“In 2014, Russia started a hybrid war against Ukraine, which it turned into a full-scale invasion in 2022. Now, there is a chance to achieve a real peace, but it is Putin who is doing everything in his power to either continue large-scale killings or secure a pause in order to continue hybrid attacks while preparing for a new full-scale invasion.
“World leaders should take into account the mistakes of previous years, as well as the mistakes of those leaders who are no longer on the stage. Putin has significant capabilities to disrupt global stability, but he is too faint-hearted to withstand real pressure from strong leaders.
“That is why we must act decisively and in unity—all those who have the courage to believe in peace and bring it closer through strength. True peace is possible, if Russia is forced into it,” the tweet concluded.
Aid Uncertain
After the Russian invasion began, the United States under Biden committed over $175 billion in aid for Ukraine, including over $60 billion in security assistance. It was uncertain if the aid would continue at that pace under Trump.
(With inputs from Reuters)
