Ukraine and the United States have differing views on the Kremlin's readiness to end the war
Kyiv does not officially share Washington’s optimistic assessment of the Russian Federation’s alleged readiness to cease its armed aggression.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about the differences in how the situation is viewed in an extensive interview with the French newspaper Le Monde.
According to the Ukrainian leadership, only increased international pressure can force Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table.
The head of state emphasized that Ukraine sees no real signs that the aggressor seeks peace.
“We do not see a sincere desire from Russia to end the war, and we share this with our partners. The United States believes that Putin wants the war to end. Here, our views are completely different,” he noted.
The Ukrainian side insists that the lack of pressure only prolongs the conflict and gives the enemy time to regroup.
According to the country’s leader, differing views with partners are a normal part of the diplomatic process, but they require careful consideration.
“But on the other hand, when we want to end the war and accelerate this process, we raise the issue of putting pressure on Russia. We know that Putin does not want to end the war,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted.
Kyiv continues to convince its allies that the illusion of Moscow’s readiness for peace is a dangerous trap.
While the U.S. president and his administration remain cautious about new sanctions or military measures, Ukraine is demanding decisive action.
“We are asking for additional pressure to make him want to. But America believes that he wants to and wonders why extra pressure is needed if Russia is showing that they are also ready for peace. There are different views on some things, and we need to work on this,” the president added.
As a reminder, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the U.S. is offering Ukraine security guarantees in exchange for the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the unoccupied territories of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also approved a plan for new military operations against Russia.
