Zelenskyy responds to Putin: Ukraine wants peace, but expects 3 million munitions
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
At a press conference in the Czech Republic, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine does not want a prolonged war with Russia and has all the tools to end it quickly. However, Russian leadership must know that Ukraine will not be without the support of its allies.
"In my opinion, if Ukraine is strong, the war will end as quickly as possible. All the tools are now in the hands, first and foremost, of the United States and our European colleagues. Preserving the alliance between America and Europe is the number one task," the president emphasized.
Zelenskyy added that another priority task is to force Russia to agree to a complete and unconditional ceasefire, as proposed by the United States. He believes that pressure from Europe and the US could help achieve this.
"But the Russians must know that we are counting on 3 million artillery shells. Not only will North Korea help them. We have allies who are supporting Ukraine. This doesn’t mean that anyone wants a long war. We want to end it. All wars end. And long dictatorial regimes always come to an end," said the president.
Zelenskyy’s statement was a response to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who recently fantasized in an interview with reporters about an "inevitable ceasefire" with Ukraine. The Russian president noted that it is just a matter of time.
US calls for Russia-Ukraine ceasefire
In March, the US urged Ukraine and Russia to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire for 30 days in order to reach a peace agreement. Ukraine immediately accepted the proposal, while Russia continues to ignore it.
At the same time, Putin announced the Easter ceasefire, during which Russian forces did not halt shelling and assaults. He then announced another ceasefire for May 9 to hold a parade in Moscow.
