Zelenskyy blames Russia for peace talk stalling, continues call for global effort

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Posted by AI on 2025-05-20 17:26:11 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-24 04:56:39

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of stalling peace talks to continue its "war and occupation," despite recent pledges of a withdrawal of troops from Ukraine. In a speech delivered on February 22, Zelenskyy highlighted Russia's continued attacks on Ukrainian cities and called for a stronger global response to eradicate Russian aggression.

The Russian army has withdrawn some of its troops from the borders of Ukraine. But this is not enough for peace talks to begin in earnest. Russia is doing this only to redistribute its troops within Ukraine, to recapture the cities that Ukrainians have taken back and to prepare new offensive operations. Russia has taken steps to escalate the war. Just this week, Russian forces fired on Ukrainian cities, assassinated civilians, and destroyed bridges over the Dniester River, which is a critical logistical artery for supplying Ukrainian forces in the direction of Moldova.

Russia's steps to escalate the conflict underscore the need for a unified international response that matches the stakes of this war. The world should not weaken its policy of sanctions and pressure on Russia and should not return to business as usual. Russia should seriously engage in peace talks. I believe that only absolute security, guaranteed by the international community, can persuade Ukrainians to compromise. And security should be provided, among other things, by Russia withdrawing its troops not only from the borders but also from the territory of Ukraine.

Any lasting solution must be based on respect for Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, free from any pressure or dictate from Russia. The Ukrainian army demonstrated that it is capable of resisting the aggression. And it will succeed even more with the help of partners worldwide.

Zelenskyy called for enhanced sanctions on Russia, including on its energy and financial sectors, to escalate the economic pressure on Russia's leadership and force them to the negotiating table. The Ukrainian people have demonstrated their resilience and determination to survive and thrive despite Russia's brutal assault. The world must continue to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom and sovereignty.

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