Amidst ongoing discussions about ending the Russia-Ukraine war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has voiced strong reservations about US President-elect Donald Trump’s proposal for a quick resolution. Zelenskyy expressed concerns that a hasty peace deal could harm Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence, prioritizing a ‘fair’ and ‘lasting’ solution instead.
Speaking at a press conference in Budapest, Zelenskyy acknowledged Trump’s desire to end the conflict but stressed that a swift resolution could be detrimental to Ukraine. “I believe that Trump really wants a quick decision,” Zelenskyy stated, “He wants this war to be finished, but a rapid solution could mean a loss for Ukraine.”
Zelenskyy’s remarks come as a direct response to Trump’s repeated claims that he could broker a peace deal within 24 hours of meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelenskyy. Trump has previously criticized Zelenskyy for allowing the war to escalate, placing some blame on the Ukrainian leader for the conflict. However, he has expressed sympathy for the Ukrainian people and reiterated his commitment to helping them.
Zelenskyy also responded to calls for an immediate ceasefire from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, echoing concerns that such a move would leave Ukraine vulnerable to further Russian aggression. He referenced past ceasefire attempts, particularly in 2014, which resulted in significant losses for Ukraine, including the annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine. “A ceasefire without proper guarantees is not peace; it’s the preparation for ruin,” Zelenskyy asserted.
In a separate development, Zelenskyy revealed that over 7,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed by Russia to assist in the fighting, adding a new layer of complexity to the conflict. These troops, he said, are equipped with advanced weaponry, including mortars, sniper rifles, and RPGs, and are receiving training at military bases in Russia’s far east.
The presence of North Korean troops, Zelenskyy argued, intensifies the militarization of the conflict and presents a significant threat to Ukraine’s security. He called for a stronger response from NATO to address this growing threat, reiterating Ukraine’s need for authorization to use long-range weapons against military targets in Russia, especially as North Korean troops are stationed close to the frontline. However, Zelenskyy acknowledged that Ukraine cannot take such action without approval from its Western allies.
As the war enters its second year, Zelenskyy remains focused on securing continued Western support and military aid, particularly in light of the escalating situation. The involvement of North Korean troops is likely to become a pivotal issue in future diplomatic discussions, as Ukraine seeks assistance from its allies in countering this new threat.
