Zelenskyy Says He Will Step Down After War With Russia Ends: ‘My Goal Is…’

Last Updated:September 25, 2025, 16:02 IST

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signals readiness to step down after Ukraine-Russia war ends.

A file photo of Zelenskyy (AP)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he will be ready to step down once the war with Russia ends, stressing that his priority is bringing the conflict to a close rather than seeking another term in office.

“My goal is to finish the war, not to continue running for office,” he told Axios.

The comments are among his clearest signals yet that he does not intend to remain in power indefinitely. Zelenskyy, who rose to global prominence after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, has often been dismissed by Moscow as an “illegitimate” leader. Earlier this year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the Kremlin would not accept Zelenskyy’s signature on any potential peace agreement.

“When we come to a stage when you have to sign documents, we would need a very clear understanding by everybody that the person who is signing is legitimate, and … Mr. Zelensky is not at the moment,” Sergey Lavrov told NBC News. He added that the Kremlin views Zelenskyy only as the “de facto head of the regime” rather than the legitimate leader of Ukraine.

At UN, Zelenskyy Says ‘Russia Refuses’ Ceasefire

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Zelenskyy ruled out the prospect of a ceasefire, saying Moscow had no interest in peace. He accused Russia of abducting thousands of Ukrainian children, targeting civilian infrastructure and destabilising Europe.

“Ukrainians are peaceful people, even during bloodshed,” he said, before asking delegates, “How long will it take to bring our children home?”

He also warned that Moldova risked falling under Russian influence if Europe failed to act, urging world leaders to step up support for Kyiv. Contrasting Ukraine’s modest arsenal with Russia’s military power, Zelenskyy said, “Ukraine doesn’t have the big fat missiles dictators love to show off in parades. Instead, we had to develop drones to protect our right to life. We succeeded in the Black Sea because Russia left us with no other choice.”

Urging global leaders, Zelenskyy said, “The facts are simple: Stopping Putin now is cheaper than trying to protect the world’s ports or ships later. It is easier than a global arms race. War has already reached too many people. Don’t stay silent while Russia keeps dragging this war on. Please speak out and condemn it.”

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