KYIV (Big News Hub) — On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he believed there was a promising opportunity to conclude the conflict with Russia following Ukraine’s acceptance of an American suggestion for a temporary truce lasting thirty days. However, Russia indicated its willingness to consider this proposition under specific stipulations.
“At present, we have a significant opportunity to swiftly conclude this conflict and establish peace. We have robust security agreements with our European allies,” Zelenskiy stated on X.
“We are now nearing the first step towards ceasing all wars — silence,” he remarked, pertaining to a ceasefire.
Addressing journalists, Zelenskiy called upon the U.S. and its allies to exert pressure on Moscow, reaffirming his conviction that Russian President Vladimir Putin will prolong ceasing fire for as long as he can.
“If there’s a robust reaction from the United States, they won’t allow them to act with impunity. If Russia takes actions that aren’t worrisome to them, they’ll drag their feet,” Zelenskiy said to reporters.
He stated that the truce along a front line exceeding 1,000 kilometers (600 miles) might be managed with assistance from the U.S., utilizing satellite technology and intelligence resources. Following meetings between American and Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia this week, where Ukraine agreed to the ceasefire, the U.S. restarted its intelligence sharing and military support efforts.
Zelenskiy mentioned that during the meeting, officials talked about territorial concerns, acknowledging that resolving this matter would necessitate a challenging discussion.
“The most challenging aspect post-ceasefire is the matter of territories,” Zelenskiy stated during a press conference.
As the conflict enters its fourth year, Russian troops now dominate approximately one-fifth of Ukraine’s land. Additionally, they have consistently made gains in the eastern Donetsk area over the past few months.
“The ceasefire clears the path for both parties to conclude the war. Moreover, the territories… will become the key factor enabling an end to the conflict once this matter is settled,” stated the President of Ukraine.
Moscow has insisted that Kyiv should relinquish permanent control over territories claimed by Russia, which include Crimea as well as four additional areas. This demand has been dismissed by Ukraine.
Zelenskiy mentioned he was talking with Kyiv’s partners about potential future security assurances and additional economic aid. He also emphasized that a complete 100% air defense system would be necessary as a deterrent within a prospective peace agreement.
(Reported by Olena Harmash, Edited by Cynthia Osterman)