Zelensky warns the world: Russia is using deception tactics and trying to prolong the war in Ukraine
In his latest address to the Ukrainian people and the global community, President Volodymyr Zelensky did not hide his harsh assessments of Russia’s current behavior in the war against Ukraine. According to him, Moscow is exerting much effort to deceive the United States and their allies by creating the illusion of readiness for negotiations based on their established positions, while in reality maintaining the status quo to prolong the conflict. "Russians talk a lot about their supposedly readiness to accept American proposals, but so far there are no signs of any real steps to end the war and resolve this crisis. On the contrary, since the Easter holidays, the occupiers have resumed active hostilities, regularly conducting assault operations, which confirms their goal – to push forward at the cost of significant losses for their forces. This is a clear signal: Russia is using deception to create an impression in the international community of its willingness to negotiate, but in fact, it is trying to drag out the conflict." According to Zelensky, these tactics indicate that Moscow seeks to isolate Ukraine and block any peace initiatives. The President emphasized that without pressure from the international community, a ceasefire or a just peace is unlikely to become a reality. "Pressure is necessary; it’s essential. Without pressure, the Russians will not stop, will not agree to the necessary steps to end this war. To force them to act in the interest of peace, efforts must be made, and pressure must be applied to make them compromise." Zelensky also stressed that recent diplomatic negotiations, including meetings in the Vatican and Rome, demonstrate understanding from partners. "Our international allies clearly understand the true state of affairs, and their actions confirm this position," he said. This reinforces confidence that the global community observes and comprehends the cost of this war, as well as its underlying motives. Regarding the situation directly on the frontline, President Zelensky reported that the day before, he heard several briefings from Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi. According to the military leader, Ukrainian defenders continue to perform their tasks in the regions of Kursk and Belgorod in Russia. "We maintain presence at our positions and respond to any challenges," the President stated. He did not generalize the information but confirmed that Ukrainian troops are supporting and strengthening their positions, demonstrating perseverance and the ability to act appropriately under any conditions. The task of the Ukrainian military in this situation is not only to defend their territory but also to show the ability to counterattack and survive even in the border regions of Russian territory. Overall, Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizes that the internal and international diplomatic fronts are strategic components in this war. He once again called on the world not to shirk responsibility and to continue pressuring Russia to adhere to international norms and halt its aggression. Only through consistent actions and a unified voice can a just and lasting peace be achieved, preventing new escalations. It is worth recalling that earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump, in Rome on April 26, sharply criticized Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s actions. Trump suggested that the Kremlin has no real intention of ending the war, but is rather misleading Ukraine and the world community by deliberately striking peaceful cities, increasing tensions, and delaying the final resolution of the conflict. As a result, the situation in Ukraine remains tense, and on the diplomatic front, the struggle continues to maintain global unity and to reject Moscow’s tactics of disrespect towards international norms. Zelensky calls on the world not to ease up and to demonstrate a firm stance as Russia continues its game of deception and prolongation of the war.