During a press conference following the 62nd Munich Security Conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed key issues including the Budapest Memorandum, the potential for presidential elections, and sanctions against Russian nuclear energy.
On the Budapest Memorandum
Zelensky stated that the Budapest Memorandum, signed in 1994 by Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Russia, ultimately failed to provide the security guarantees it promised. He emphasized that Ukraine relinquished its nuclear arsenal and military equipment in exchange for assurances of sovereignty, which were not upheld when Russia invaded.
“We had the Budapest Memorandum, which was only a security guarantee. We gave up nuclear weapons and other arms, as well as many aircraft — dozens of them — and we received guarantees of security that our sovereignty would be protected. In the end, we have no security guarantees because Russia came, and no one struck back at Russia. No one saved our independence,” he said.
On the Possibility of Presidential Elections
Zelensky described the idea of holding elections as “wonderful,” expressing his eagerness to conduct them as soon as feasible. However, he noted that elections could only take place if a ceasefire is achieved.
He mentioned that legislative changes would be necessary through the Verkhovna Rada to facilitate this process. Currently, he indicated that 90% of Ukrainians oppose elections during wartime, understanding the challenges involved.
“It is terrible. How will our soldiers vote? They are protecting us, and they must be heard. It is also concerning how the eight million people abroad will vote. But they must choose a president,” Zelensky remarked.
He added that if former President Trump could facilitate a ceasefire lasting two to three months, elections could be organized.
On EU and US Sanctions Against Russian Nuclear Energy
Zelensky highlighted the ongoing sanctions imposed by the European Union and the United States against Russian nuclear energy and individuals associated with the state-owned company Rosatom. He asserted that these measures should have a tangible impact.
“Europeans have not yet imposed sanctions against Russian nuclear energy, against Rosatom, against individuals, their relatives, and their children living in Europe, studying in European universities, or owning property in the United States… They should go back to Russia. Go home. You do not respect anyone in the US, you do not respect the rules, you do not respect democracy, you do not respect Ukraine, or Europe,” he stated.
The situation continues to evolve…
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the shortcomings of the Budapest Memorandum, the challenges of conducting elections during wartime, and the need for stricter sanctions on Russian nuclear energy. His remarks highlight the ongoing complexities faced by Ukraine in securing its sovereignty and governance amid conflict.
Source: REUTERS