Zelenskyy: We must teach Russia to respect others and force it to seek a path to peace

The head of state notes that most nations in the world have made their choices and opted for peace, while "others have simply been unlucky with their neighbors." He stresses that Ukraine never wanted war, which feels anachronistically out of place in the 21st century, reminiscent of the 19th or even the 17th century.

"The unprovoked and criminal Russian aggression is a reflection of the evil part of the human soul that seeks dominance, showing contempt for life, and failing to learn from history despite frequently invoking it," Zelenskyy says.

The President adds that Russia needs to be taught to respect others, not to ignore peace.

"We must teach Russia to respect others and force it to seek a path to peace. It is possible. Remember – history marks not those who had it easy and surrendered, but those who faced difficulties and still withstood," he said.

Ukraine-Russia negotiations

Ukraine and Russia are currently not engaged in peace negotiations. Ukraine insists that before the start of negotiations, the Russian Federation must withdraw its troops.

In late December, The New York Times reported that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin allegedly signaled through diplomatic channels that he was ready to freeze the war in Ukraine.

Also, according to unconfirmed information, Putin sent proposals for a ceasefire a year earlier, in the fall of 2022.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says that Western states are not asking Ukraine to negotiate with Russia on freezing the war. President Zelenskyy also says that there is currently no pressure from partners.