Kyiv (National Times)– Following a tense exchange with U.S. President Donald Trump over a potential ceasefire in Ukraine’s war with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed his country’s desire for peace but insisted that a “just and lasting peace” is impossible without security guarantees from the U.S. and its allies.
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskyy thanked the American government and people for their support while urging the U.S. to take a stronger stance in backing Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Call for Stronger U.S. Support
Zelenskyy made it clear that Ukraine is grateful for past U.S. military aid, but emphasized that security commitments are essential before any discussions of a ceasefire can take place.
“We are very grateful to the United States for all the support. I’m thankful to President Trump, Congress, and the American people. Their help has been vital in our survival. But we need to be honest and direct to truly understand our shared goals,” he stated.
Citing former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, Zelenskyy rejected the idea that peace means simply stopping the war.
“Peace is not just the absence of war. It must be just and lasting—based on freedom, justice, and human rights. A ceasefire won’t work with Putin. He has broken ceasefires 25 times over the last decade. Real peace is the only solution.”
Zelenskyy Pushes for Security Guarantees Before Ceasefire
Ukraine is open to signing a minerals agreement with the U.S., Zelenskyy said, but only if it leads to broader security assurances.
“We are ready to sign the minerals agreement, and it will be the first step toward security guarantees. But a ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous. Ukraine has been fighting for three years, and our people need to know that America is on our side,” he emphasized.
Ukraine’s Position on Russia: ‘They Are the Enemy’
Zelenskyy made it clear that Ukraine cannot compromise with Russia while Moscow continues its aggression.
“I cannot change Ukraine’s position on Russia. They are killing us. Russia is the enemy, and that is the reality we face. Ukraine wants peace, but it must be a just and lasting peace. For that, we need to be strong at the negotiation table—with security guarantees and a strong army.”
He warned against rushing into peace talks without firm commitments, stating, “Our situation is tough, but we cannot just stop fighting without guarantees that Putin will not return tomorrow.”
The Role of the U.S. and Europe in Ukraine’s Defense
Zelenskyy acknowledged that while European nations are willing to fund Ukraine’s army, they lack the weapons needed to hold back Russia.
“Europe is ready to support us financially, but we need U.S. involvement to define clear security guarantees—what kind, what volume, and when. Once these guarantees are in place, we can discuss diplomacy with Russia, Europe, and the U.S. War alone is too long, and we don’t have enough weapons to push them out entirely.”
Tensions Between Zelenskyy and Trump Administration
The statement follows a dramatic confrontation between Zelenskyy, President Trump, and Vice President JD Vance at the White House.
During the Oval Office meeting, Vance accused Zelenskyy of “litigating” Ukraine’s position in front of the press and criticized him for appearing with Democratic politicians during the 2024 campaign.
Trump, in turn, accused Zelenskyy of being ungrateful for U.S. assistance and said that he was not serious about ending the war. Following the meeting, Zelenskyy left the White House early, without signing the anticipated minerals agreement or attending a scheduled press conference with Trump.
Looking Ahead: The Future of U.S.-Ukraine Relations
Despite the public fallout, Zelenskyy reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining strong ties with the U.S..
“Our relationship with the American president is more than just two leaders—it’s a historic and solid bond between our peoples. I truly hope we will continue to have strong relations,” he said.
However, with Trump considering halting military aid, the future of U.S.-Ukraine cooperation remains uncertain.
