Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of deliberately obstructing peace efforts and continuing its large-scale attacks across Ukraine, saying that Moscow “does not want the war to end.”
In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) page, Zelenskyy said Ukraine has “never sought war” and has repeatedly pursued opportunities for peace.
“Ukraine has never sought war. We agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, looked for opportunities for peace, and repeatedly offered the world ways to stop the strikes in the sky, on land, and at sea,” Zelenskyy wrote. “But it is Russia that continually obstructs this process – manipulating, dragging out negotiations, terrorizing our people with airstrikes, and intensifying assaults along the front line.”
The Ukrainian president said that the war continues only because “Moscow does not want it to end,” accusing Russian forces of carrying out hundreds of attacks on both civilian and critical infrastructure “almost every day.”
According to Zelenskyy, Russian forces launched more than 3,270 attack drones, 1,370 guided aerial bombs, and nearly 50 missiles of various types against Ukraine in just one week.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is working with international partners to strengthen its air defenses through initiatives such as the PURL program and increased investments in the nation’s defense industry.
“We are constantly strengthening our defense and working with partners to enhance air defense,” he said. “Putin cannot be stopped with words – pressure is needed. The world sees that Russia responds to strength, which means that peace through strength can work.”
The Ukrainian leader called on the United States, Europe, and the G7 and G20 countries to take “decisive steps” to protect civilian lives and maintain global support for Ukraine.
“Ukraine will never grant terrorists any bounty for their crimes, and we count on our partners to uphold this position,” Zelenskyy stated. “Lives must be protected. I thank everyone who is helping in this effort.”
Zelenskyy’s remarks come as Russian forces continue to intensify strikes across multiple regions of Ukraine, while Kyiv appeals for increased international aid and defense support.
Anthony Emeka Nwosu
