Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (ANI)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday called on the United States, Europe, the G20, and G7 nations to take “decisive steps” to protect lives and stop Russian President Vladimir Putin.In a post on X, Zelenskyy said, “Ukraine has never sought war. We agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, looked for opportunities for peace, and repeatedly offered the world ways to stop the strikes in the sky, on land, and at sea. But it is Russia that continually obstructs this process – manipulating, dragging out negotiations, terrorizing our people with airstrikes, and intensifying assaults along the front line. The war continues only because Moscow does not want it to end.” Zelenskyy also accused Russia of “terrorising our people with airstrikes” and said Moscow has no intention of ending the war.“Putin cannot be stopped with words – pressure is needed. The world sees that Russia responds to strength, which means that peace through strength can work. Ukraine will never grant terrorists any bounty for their crimes, and we count on our partners to uphold this very position. Decisive steps are needed from the United States, Europe, the G20 and G7 countries. Lives must be protected. I thank everyone who is helping in this effort,” he added.Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly demanded that Ukraine surrender full control of Donetsk, a strategically crucial region in eastern Ukraine, as a condition for ending the war, according to The Washington Post.The demand was made during a phone call with US President Donald Trump earlier this week.Trump has not publicly endorsed Putin’s demand. After his West Wing meeting with Zelenskyy on Friday, the US president struck a neutral tone, urging both sides to halt fighting. He wrote on social media, “It is time to stop the killing, and make a DEAL! Enough blood has been shed, with property lines being defined by War and Guts. They should stop where they are. Let both claim Victory, let History decide!”While the relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy has improved, the ultimate goals Kyiv seeks in negotiations appear out of reach for now, noted CNN. Go to Source
