Zelensky Calls for Changing the Tone in US-Russia Relations: “A Warm Conversation” Won’t Stop the Aggressor
In light of new challenges and the escalation of Russian aggression, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a bold statement regarding strategic diplomacy and approaches to resolving the conflict. In an interview with the American television channel Newsmax, the head of the Ukrainian state expressed the conviction that a simple "warm communication" between the US and Russia cannot stop Vladimir Putin, who continues his aggressive policies toward Ukraine. US-Russia Dialogue Must Change — Zelensky According to the Ukrainian president, the current level of communication between Washington and Moscow is more of a "warm chat" than an active and concrete stance. Zelensky emphasized that to end the war, it is necessary to radically change the tone of the dialogue. "The US-Russia dialogue is like talking under a blanket — it’s warm, but it doesn’t produce results. It won’t stop Putin," he explained. He urges the world to send a clear and unequivocal message to the Russian leader: through actions — sanctions, support for Ukraine, and strengthening defenses — Western countries must demonstrate that they will not make concessions. "Putin must clearly understand: if he refuses to end the war, he will face the harshest response — the strongest sanctions that the world can deploy to deprive him of resources and capabilities," Zelensky stressed. Russia Must Be Put in Its Place — Zelensky The president also highlighted that Russia must publicly understand that its actions are not only a display of aggression but also a challenge to the international community. According to Zelensky, its current behavior suggests a completely different scenario, as the country is increasingly resembling "a train going at high speed with no one at the controls." "Russia is a country that has radicalized its society through propaganda. People have been literally fed hatred towards NATO, the US, and the West. They say they need to go all the way. This is a demonstration of how much their inner world is engulfed in conflict and irresponsibility," Zelensky noted. The Threat of a Prolonged War and Defense Industry — Key Factors The Ukrainian leader emphasized that Russia does not wish to end the war and pays a high price for it. According to his estimates, Russia invests about $300 billion annually in its military complex — funds used to enhance army capabilities and produce weapons. This, he says, indicates that Russia has no plans to make concessions and will do everything possible to prolong the conflict. Connection to Global Security and the Future Zelensky pointed out that the only strategy for the world is a firm and clear stance against the aggressor. Rejecting diplomacy and providing unwavering support for Ukraine can break Kremlin’s plans and force Putin’s regime to reconsider its actions. "We must go to the end to defend freedom and democracy," the Ukrainian president said. "Russian aggression is a challenge for the entire international community. Only together can we stop this machine of war." Conclusion Zelensky calls for a reassessment of the style of diplomatic relations and believes that Western countries need to strengthen their position regarding Russia. Calm words and warm conversations no longer work — now is the time for tough and decisive actions. Ukraine and the world must make Moscow understand: aggression will have its price. The enemy must realize that victory requires not only diplomacy but also firm support and defensive measures. Only then can we stop the ‘train going at high speed’ that brings destruction and chaos to the region.