(Image source from: AP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that after almost four years of fighting Russia, Ukrainians are tired, but he emphasized that giving in to Moscow's requests is not possible. He stressed that any agreement that weakens Ukraine's independence would mean losing the nation completely. In an interview with CNN, just before the fourth anniversary of Russia's full invasion, Zelenskyy recognized the widespread exhaustion within Ukrainian society as the war enters its fifth year. However, he insisted that being tired of war cannot lead to giving up. Zelenskyy consistently described the conflict as a struggle for survival against Russian President Vladimir Putin, cautioning that giving up land or accepting forced conditions would permanently harm Ukraine and its people.
Zelenskyy told CNN, "They must support a democratic country that is fighting against one individual. Because this person is a war. Putin is a war. It's all about him. It's all about one person. And his entire country is like a prison," as he urged ongoing international help, especially from the United States.
Speaking directly to US President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy said that Washington's involvement is still essential for resisting Russia's attacks. He stated, "If they truly want to stop Putin, America is so powerful."
When asked if Trump was pressuring Moscow enough, Zelenskyy said "No." The Ukrainian President stated that even though both civilians and soldiers are tired, giving in to Russia's requests would mean surrendering. He explained, "We cannot simply give him everything he desires, because his goal is to take over our country. If we grant all his wishes, we will lose everything; everyone will have to flee or become Russian." Zelenskyy mentioned that current diplomatic discussions between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States haven't made much progress, mainly because they disagree on future security promises. He added that the security promises made so far are unclear about how allies would react if Russia invaded again.
