Zelenskyy highlights factor that could end Russia’s war in Ukraine
Volodymyr Zelenskyy (photo: Getty Images)
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that every strengthening of Ukraine brings the war closer to an end. Peace, he noted, will be driven by the decisions of Ukraine’s partners, according to his Telegram channel.
The president specifically commented on Russia’s overnight attack on Kryvyi Rih, highlighting the systematic nature of Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy sector in recent weeks.
“A wave of drones struck Kryvyi Rih - hitting civilian infrastructure. Dozens more attack drones were in the sky. Missiles were also recorded. In fact, in recent weeks, there hasn’t been a single night without Russian attacks on Ukraine. Most targets are infrastructure. It’s a systematic terror campaign against our energy sector,” Zelenskyy said.
He noted that the Kremlin seeks to turn Ukrainian territory into an island of dangers and make life unbearable for its people, but this cannot be allowed.
“Russia will be forced to stop the war when it can no longer continue it. And real Russian readiness for peace is not in words, which Putin has never lacked, but in the actual cessation of strikes and killings, and that is exactly where he has problems,” the president said.
Zelenskyy also emphasized that every decision by Ukraine’s partners to strengthen the country will push Russia to end the war.
“That’s why every air defense system for Ukraine matters for saving lives. Every decision that can make us stronger brings the war closer to its end. Security can be guaranteed if everything we agree on, including in Washington, is implemented. Thank you to everyone who stands with Ukraine,” the Ukrainian leader concluded.
By the way, this statement likely also responds to the ambiguous remarks of US President Donald Trump. He recently spoke about a practically approved decision to send Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, but a few hours ago, Trump said that the missiles are needed by the US and that America cannot deplete its stockpiles. Whether this means Washington will not supply Tomahawks to Kyiv remains unclear.
Trump and Zelenskyy meeting and potential dialogue with Russia
Today, August 17, the long-awaited meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will take place.
Based on public statements and media reports, the two leaders are expected to discuss the possible transfer of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, and even Ukraine’s plans to go on the offensive.
On Thursday, October 16, Trump held a phone call with Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin. Following the talks, the US leader said the conversation showed progress and announced a new summit with the Russian President, scheduled to take place in Budapest within the next two weeks. The main topic of discussion will be the possibility of ending the war.
The White House also stated yesterday that Trump does not rule out a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy.
