Zelensky on deterring Russian aggression: Prevention better than resuscitation

The Ukrainian leader spoke about this at a joint press conference with Johnson in Kyiv on Tuesday, February 1, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"We also discussed a set of steps to deter Russian aggression. My opinion is well-known here. The word ‘deterrence’ testifies to its logic. Any measures are effective prior, not after. It’s prevention, not something that comes after. Prevention is better than resuscitation," said Zelensky.

According to the Ukrainian president, the actions taken by the UK show that the country understands this position as its government has decided to strengthen sanctions against Russia for aggression against Ukraine. "We are grateful to the United Kingdom for supporting our European integration aspirations," Zelensky added.

An important topic of talks was strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities. In this context, Zelensky assured that Ukraine is building a strong Army. Therefore, the nation, the president added, is grateful to Britain for the decision on financial support worth GBP 1.7 billion.

"In addition, we agreed on joint actions to ensure peace and security in the Black Sea region, as well as to intensify cooperation in the field of cyber defense and cyber security," the head of state added.

Zelensky noted he was glad to welcome Johnson and stressed that the visit was taking place at a difficult time for Ukraine.

"Prime Minister Johnson assured me of his full support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, readiness for further cooperation, including within the Crimea Platform for the deoccupation of our peninsula and the return of all our Ukrainian territories," Zelensky said.

Prior to his visit to Kyiv on Tuesday, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, announced more than $118 million in financial assistance to Ukraine.

British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss was initially set to accompany Johnson on his Ukraine trip before being diagnosed with COVID-19 and going on isolation.

The prime ministers of Poland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom arrived in Ukraine on February 1.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet with the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte, on February 2.

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