Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed President-elect Donald Trump's proposal for an immediate ceasefire and peace negotiations with Russia, emphasizing that a lasting resolution cannot be achieved through quick fixes. Speaking during a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky underlined the importance of securing reliable guarantees for peace and categorically ruled out any territorial concessions to Moscow.
Zelensky stated, “This war is not just about Ukraine; it is about defending the principles of international law and sovereignty. A truce without addressing these core issues would only embolden further aggression.” He further warned that any superficial agreement could result in prolonged instability in the region.
Trump, who has repeatedly criticized the Biden administration for its extensive military support to Ukraine, claims he could end the war within weeks of assuming office. His plan involves halting arms supplies to both sides and initiating direct negotiations. "This is a conflict that should never have happened," Trump said in a recent interview, adding that his administration would focus on achieving "peace through strength."
However, Zelensky expressed skepticism about Trump's approach, noting that any deal which compromises Ukraine’s territorial integrity or sovereignty would be unacceptable to his government and people. “Peace is not a transaction. It must be built on justice and respect for borders,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin reiterated its demands, stating that Ukraine must recognize Russian sovereignty over the territories it has annexed, including Crimea and parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, as a precondition for any settlement. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described Trump’s proposal as “a step in the right direction” but maintained that Ukraine’s withdrawal from occupied territories is non-negotiable.
International reactions to Trump’s comments have been mixed. European leaders, while welcoming any effort to end the conflict, have cautioned against rushing into an agreement that could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the alliance’s commitment to supporting Kyiv, stating, “Peace must come on Ukraine’s terms, not as a reward for aggression.”
As the war enters another harsh winter, with significant humanitarian and economic tolls on both sides, the pathway to peace remains fraught with challenges. For Zelensky, the stakes are higher than ever, as he continues to rally international support while defending Ukraine’s right to self-determination.
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