Zelensky urges global resolve to halt Putin's relentless campaign

In a conversation with the British television channel ITV, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed disappointment that the international community has not been able to stop Vladimir Putin after three years of conflict. He emphasised that despite having the means, they have been unable to halt the Russian leader.

It's surprising that we haven't been able to stop Putin over these three years, and the whole world hasn't managed to halt him. That is, to stop him, slow him down, prevent him from destroying us - and they could have. But the world was not able to put him in his place (…) give him a rap on the knuckles. It's not inability. It's unwillingness - stated Zelensky, as quoted by the Polish Press Agency.

The President of Ukraine also highlighted the importance of international aid for his country. Without the support of partners, Ukraine would have faced a much harder task defending its territory.

Without them, it would be very difficult for us. Maybe even impossible - Zelensky admitted.

Zelensky also touched upon the issue of elections in Ukraine, emphasising that their conduct requires the end of martial law. He expressed concerns that halting martial law could weaken the army and give Russia an opportunity for an offensive.

I'm not at all afraid of elections. But how will it look? We should end or halt martial law. If we halt martial law, we'll lose the army. (…) People (soldiers) will return home. (…) And even for those who don't return, it will be a pause. Russia will surely use this for offensive actions - he emphasised.

The President of Ukraine expressed confidence that the country will regain all territories occupied by Russia when the opponent is weakened. Zelensky believes that Russia's weakness will allow for the recovery of lost lands.

When Russia is weak, and it will undoubtedly happen, everything will return to us - he stated.

Zelensky emphasised that peace negotiations with Russia should be preceded by security guarantees for Ukraine. He expressed readiness for talks if America and Europe provide support and security. - If I understood that America and Europe would not abandon us, that they would support us and provide security guarantees, I would be ready for any negotiation format — he said.

The President of Ukraine stressed that a frozen conflict is not a solution because Putin may attack again. He emphasised that ending the war and preventing Russia from returning with aggression is crucial for Ukraine's future.

A frozen conflict will lead to him returning again with his aggression. Who, then (…) will go down in history as the winner? No one. And it will be an absolute defeat for everyone - stated Zelensky.