Zelenskyy: We trust the US will take strong steps

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made statements regarding discussions held with the US in Saudi Arabia concerning a ceasefire with Russia. Expressing his expectation that the US will take firm measures against Russia should Moscow reject a ceasefire, Zelenskyy said, "If Russia rejects the ceasefire, we trust that the US will take strong steps. I do not know the details yet, but we are talking about sanctions and the strengthening of Ukraine."

Stating that all critical issues were addressed during the meeting in Saudi Arabia, Zelenskyy said, "In general, the US side wanted Ukraine to show that it is ready to take rapid steps toward ending the war. When Ukraine demonstrated this willingness, the US promised to renew its support, and it did so. Therefore, I see this as a positive outcome."

"THESE STEPS WILL MEAN 'PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH'"

Emphasizing that the meeting was "extremely constructive," Zelenskyy said, "Subsequently, our European partners also announced that they support the serious steps we have taken to end the war. They said, 'The ball is now in Russia's court.' Therefore, sanctions or other pressure tools against Russia will depend on the US dialogue with Russia. If I understood correctly, these steps will mean 'peace through strength'."

Zelenskyy added, "If the Russians show that they are ready to accept the US proposal just as we did, neither more nor less, then appropriate decisions will be made. However, if they are not ready, we hope that the US will take the steps it promised."

"WE WILL NOT RECOGNIZE ANY TERRITORY OCCUPIED BY RUSSIA"

Stating that Ukraine will never recognize occupied territories as Russian land, Zelenskyy said, "We will not recognize any territory occupied by Russia. This is a fact. Our people fought for this, our heroes gave their lives. Many were wounded, much was endured. Therefore, no one will forget this. When I say no one will forget, these are our fundamental red lines."

News Source: İHA