Zelensky: diplomatic end to war requires effective plan, strong Ukrainian position

The Ukrainian head of state made this statement in an interview with the Associated Press, as reported by Ukrinform.

"Only Putin knows all his goals. And only Ukraine knows that Putin wants to see all his sick ambitions through to the end. That’s why the war must be ended diplomatically, but for that, we need the right, effective plan for a just peace and a strong position for Ukraine at the negotiating table," Zelensky said.

He emphasized that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin does not seek peace or negotiations with Ukraine but rather wants to prolong the war.

"You will see that Putin does not want negotiations — he will disrupt them, claiming that this is a war between Russia and the West. Then, he will again bring up the story of ‘illegitimacy’… He will come up with reasons to avoid the possibility of ending the war with Ukraine through negotiations. The issue is not about individuals but about his position within his own state. He wants to portray Ukraine as a non-entity and claim that he was fighting against the West, against the U.S.," the President said.

As Ukrinform previously reported, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he "loves the Russian people and does not want to harm Russia," but he would have no choice but to impose "high taxes, tariffs, and sanctions" on Russian goods if Moscow does not agree to a peace deal with Ukraine.