Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky backs US-proposed 30-day ceasefire, urges pressure on Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed strong support for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire proposed by the United States, emphasising that it would serve as a crucial test of Russia’s intentions for peace. Speaking at a press briefing in Kyiv, Zelensky highlighted the diplomatic progress made in Jeddah and called for increased pressure on Moscow to end the war.

Ceasefire as a measure of Russia’s commitment

Zelensky stated that Russia can no longer evade the question of peace, urging it to demonstrate its willingness to end the conflict.

“Now, it will be difficult for Russia to wriggle out. If Russia agrees to a ceasefire, it must demonstrate its willingness to end the war, or it will show that it wants to continue. This is what everyone is waiting for,” he remarked.

Need for stronger pressure on Russia

Zelensky stressed that the ceasefire would expose Russia’s true intentions, arguing that if Moscow refuses, it would be rejecting Trump’s proposal rather than Ukraine’s.

“The truth is now clear – Russia must show its intentions for peace, and that is where the pressure must be applied. If Russia does not want peace, strong measures must be taken to push them toward it,” he asserted.

Acknowledging US support

Zelensky expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump and the American delegation for their role in the peace process, noting that Ukraine’s stance has gained broad international support.

“I want to thank President Trump and the American delegation. This process must continue. Everyone agrees with Ukraine’s position, and this position has now become shared,” he said.

Security and reconstruction plans

Beyond the ceasefire, Zelensky emphasised the necessity of security guarantees and reconstruction efforts. He revealed that Germany and Turkey had raised the issue of a post-war rebuilding plan, a move he described as a “positive signal.”

Ukraine’s NATO aspirations and military strength

Addressing Ukraine’s long-term security, Zelensky rejected any Russian influence over NATO membership discussions, stating that Ukraine’s alliances must be determined by its partners, not Kremlin demands.

“We understand that the decision regarding NATO membership or any other format should depend on NATO allies or other partners, but certainly not on Russia’s desires or their vision,” he declared.

He also emphasised the need to strengthen Ukraine’s military, urging allies to scale up weapons production and security commitments.

“It’s not about reducing the Ukrainian army, but about strengthening it as a guarantor of security for Ukraine and Europe,” Zelensky stated, warning that a five-year timeline for bolstering European defense is “too long and too dangerous.”

Call for immediate action

Zelensky urged allies to act swiftly in strengthening military production and implementing security measures.

“This means strengthening and massively increasing production in all allied countries to make real the security guarantees for all of Europe,” he said.

With growing international support, Ukraine remains focused on securing peace while fortifying its military and geopolitical position.