Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday re-emphasized the necessity of national unity and strong international alliances, particularly with the United States, as Ukraine struggles to push off Russian aggression.
In his night-time video speech, Zelenskyy stressed his faith in the strength of the Ukrainian people and continued support from Western nations. “We are standing firmly on our own two feet. I count on Ukrainian unity, our courage, the solidarity of Europe, and America’s pragmatism,” he declared. “Because America needs success just as much as we do.”
Zelenskyy also stated that he was to sit down with US envoy to Russia and Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Thursday, adding that there’s a necessity for building a “constructive” relationship with Washington. He reiterated that the alliance between the US and Europe is essential in order for permanent peace to be achieved. “Along with America and Europe, there can be more secure peace, and that is our mission,” he stated. Our unity is the very best promise for our future without Putin, but with peace.”
His statements were made after recent talks between Russia and the United States that Ukraine did not invite. The two nuclear countries began the first such high-level talks in over three years.
Zelenskyy’s address also came after US President Donald Trump dismissed him as a “dictator without elections” for Kyiv’s decision not to implement wartime voting. Trump also stirred uproar by stating that Ukraine was guilty of Russia’s invasion in 2022.
Despite these tensions, Zelenskyy remains determined to maintain Ukraine’s alliances, stressing that unity and diplomacy are the two things that will bring a future without Russian aggression.
