Zelenskyy explains his position after disrupted meeting with Trump

"We are very grateful to the United States for all the support. I’m thankful to President Trump, Congress for their bipartisan support, and American people. Ukrainians have always appreciated this support, especially during these three years of full-scale invasion," the president emphasized.

He noted that America’s assistance was vital in helping Ukrainians survive. According to the president, despite the difficult dialogue between him and Trump, the two countries remain strategic partners.

At the same time, he stressed that both sides must be honest and open with each other to truly understand their shared goals.

"It’s crucial for us to have President Trump’s support. He wants to end the war, but no one wants peace more than we do. We are the ones living this war in Ukraine. It’s a fight for our freedom, for our very survival," said the head of state.

Zelenskyy, referring to the words of former US President Ronald Reagan that "peace is not simply the absence of war," emphasized that a just and lasting peace means freedom, justice, and respect for human rights for all.

He stressed that a ceasefire would not work with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, as over the past ten years, he has violated truces 25 times. Zelenskyy stated that the only solution is true peace.

"We are ready to sign the minerals agreement, and it will be the first step toward security guarantees. But it’s not enough, and we need more than just that. A ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous for Ukraine. We’ve been fighting for 3 years, and Ukrainian people need to know that America is on our side.," the head of state emphasized.

Zelenskyy noted that he cannot change Ukraine’s position on Russia because Russians continue to kill Ukrainians, and Russia itself is an enemy. According to him, this is a reality the country is forced to face.

Just and lasting peace

He emphasized that Ukraine seeks peace, but that peace must be just and lasting. According to him, achieving such peace requires strength at the negotiating table. Zelenskyy stressed that peace will only be possible with security guarantees, a strong army, and support from international partners.

"We want peace. That’s why I came to the United States and visited President Trump. The deal on minerals is just a first step toward security guarantees and getting closer to peace. Our situation is tough, but we can’t just stop fighting and not having guarantees that Putin will not return tomorrow," he noted.

The president remarked that without US support, it would be difficult for Ukraine. However, he stated that Ukrainians cannot lose their will, freedom, or people.

"We’ve seen how Russians came to our homes and killed many people. Nobody wants another wave of occupation. If we cannot be accepted to NATO, we need some clear structure of security guarantees from our allies in the US," he emphasized.

Support from Europe

Zelenskyy stated that Europe is prepared for unforeseen situations and is providing financial support to strengthen the Ukrainian army. He emphasized that the role of the United States in determining security guarantees — what kind, how much, and for how long — is also crucial.

According to him, once these guarantees are agreed upon, Ukraine will be able to conduct diplomatic negotiations with Russia, Europe, and the US At the same time, he acknowledged that the war has lasted too long and that the current stockpiles of weapons are insufficient to completely drive out Russian forces.

"When someone talks about losses, every single life matters. Russia invaded our homes, killed our people, and tried to erase us. This isn’t just about territories or numbers — it’s about real lives. That’s what we need everyone to understand," Zelenskyy added.

Zelenskyy stressed that this war is not just a conflict between two countries, as Russia has brought it directly onto Ukrainian territory and into citizens' homes. He emphasized that Russia’s actions are wrong because it does not respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

According to him, all Ukrainians want to hear a clear and strong US position in support of Ukraine. He noted that while the United States may seek dialogue with Putin, it has always followed the principle of "peace through strength." Zelenskyy expressed confidence that, together with international partners, decisive steps can be taken against the Russian dictator.

Zelenskyy’s relationship with Trump

The president also noted that his relationship with the American president is about more than just two leaders.

"Our relationship with the American President is more than just two leaders; it’s a historic and solid bond between our peoples. That’s why I always begin with words of gratitude from our nation to the American nation. American people helped save our people. Humans and human rights come first. We’re truly thankful. We want only strong relations with America, and I really hope we will have them," Zelenskyy concluded.

Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Washington on February 28, where he met with President Donald Trump.

During their conversation in the White House, a dispute arose between Zelenskyy, Trump, and US Vice President JD Vance regarding the war in Ukraine.

After the argument, Trump gathered with his key advisers in the Oval Office. Later, Volodymyr Zelenskyy left the White House earlier than planned.

Trump accused the Ukrainian president of supposedly not being ready for peace.

It is also worth noting that Washington had expected the signing of an agreement between Ukraine and the US regarding mineral resources. However, this did not happen.

For more details on Zelenskyy’s meeting with Trump, see RBC-Ukraine’s report.