Zelensky stated: we are almost on the threshold of a decision that will force Russia to cease the war
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is convinced that the Ukrainian state, in cooperation with its allies on the international stage, is approaching a critical moment when it may be possible to force Russia to stop its aggression and end hostilities on Ukrainian territory. According to the head of state, this historic moment depends on the unity and determination of the West, particularly the United States of America, to implement tough sanctions against the Russian Federation. Currently, the situation is on the verge of a decisive change, and strong pressure could facilitate the end of the war, Zelensky believes. In an exclusive interview with ABC News, he once again emphasized that Ukrainian authorities feel they are very close to reaching a point when Russia may be compelled to compromise or at least suspend hostilities. The president highlighted that Ukraine is already conducting an active operation called "Web" — a complex and multi-level plan of action, which, according to Zelensky, is taking control of and destroying the logistics and resources of the aggressor. This contributes to the increasing understanding among Russians, despite their stubbornness and desire to preserve the strategic status quo, that their chances of holding out under pressure are quickly diminishing. He added that, although Russia tries to create an illusion of a hopeless situation, in reality its leaders sense that applying appropriate pressure — including the potential deployment of 20,000 missiles that the US intended to supply to Ukraine but later transferred to the Middle East — is bringing Ukraine closer to gaining independent defense capabilities and the ability to resist the aggressor on its own. According to Zelensky, this could radically change the situation and mark the beginning of the end of the war. Regarding the role of the United States, the president noted: “We very much need strong support from the US. This is a country with the greatest influence and resources to force Russia to end the war. After all, the US has the ability and the will to apply the necessary pressure — through sanctions, political influence, and diplomatic pressure.” Zelensky emphasized the importance of maintaining unity with Europe and motivating it to strengthen its positions, but the final decision depends entirely on the US. The president is confident that the American leader, regardless of political circumstances, possesses all the tools necessary — from economic sanctions to military aid. Zelensky believes that President Joe Biden is capable of demonstrating political courage and taking responsibility for changing the situation on the frontlines and diplomatically ending the war. For his part, Zelensky stressed that Ukraine supports all proposals and initiatives by the US for a quick cessation of hostilities and called on the global community to work towards this goal. According to the president, under current conditions, there can be no talk of balancing interests, as Russia does not wish for peace or diplomatic compromise. All that is needed is systematic and consistent influence from the main global players. “Only sanctions, pressure, and united efforts can compel Putin to reduce or end the war,” Zelensky emphasized. “The US has the full potential and all the tools for this. As for our European partners, they also look to the world leader — Trump, who today can fulfill this role and convince the Russian leadership of the necessity to stop the aggression.” He expressed the conviction that America should demonstrate leadership in this crisis, since its decisions will affect the future not only of Ukraine but of all free democracy worldwide. “Whether Trump can take this step,” he said, “I do not want to doubt, but he has all the necessary capabilities and authority to bring about radical changes in the situation and end the war. This is a chance that Ukraine and the world cannot afford to miss, and its realization depends heavily on whether it will be seized: whether long-term peace, stability, and security in the region will be established.” If we talk in detail, Zelensky is convinced that all the potential for pressure on Russia is already in place; what remains is political will and the support of the US leader. Therefore, the issue of effective actions, sanctions implementation, and diplomatic steps still remains open, and from them depends the further course of Ukraine’s fight for freedom and global security.