Key statements from Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s briefing
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s statements at the media briefing:
▫️ There is no encirclement of Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region. russia aims to encircle them in this direction, but on Ukrainian territory. Our command is aware of their intentions. The buildup of russian forces near the border indicates that russia is not seeking peace.
▫️ It is important for the U.S. not to fall for russia’s “buts” regarding a ceasefire. A 30-day silence is an opportunity for all parties to demonstrate a genuine willingness to end the war—or the opposite.
▫️ Ukraine is ready for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, as proposed by the U.S. If russia does not agree, it means it is rejecting the U.S. proposal, not Ukraine’s.
▫️ If the russians violate the ceasefire, Ukrainians will continue to defend their homeland.
▫️ Partners highly praised the Ukrainian negotiation team that participated in the talks in Saudi Arabia. Europe also wants to form its own negotiation team.
▫️ A summit with partner countries on Ukraine is now happening almost weekly. Another meeting in an online format may take place within a week.
▫️ The promised €150 billion for strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities will soon be allocated, and Ukraine will have an equal approach to this process.
▫️ At the summit, partners raised the issue of a fixed security guarantees plan. The German and Turkish sides also emphasized the need for a reconstruction plan.
▫️ Everyone is counting on allied security guarantees—from Europe, the U.S., and other willing participants. There is also discussion about potential formats of troop contingents.
▫️ The decision on NATO membership should depend on NATO allies, not russia’s wishes.
▫️ Ukraine does not recognize the occupied territories as russian. The American delegation at the Jeddah meeting raised the issue of territories and received Ukraine’s firm position.
