Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed cautious optimism regarding security guarantees offered by the United States, while highlighting significant concerns about the conditions tied to these assurances. In an interview with CNN, Zelensky emphasized the need for clarity on what actions the U.S. and its allies would take if Russia were to escalate its aggression again.
Zelensky pointed out that while there are positive aspects to the proposed security guarantees, he is seeking a definitive commitment from international partners. “What our partners will be ready to do if Putin comes again is what Ukrainians want to hear,” he stated, reflecting the anxieties of a nation that has faced repeated threats from Russia.
One of the main points of contention in the negotiations involves the sequence of actions leading to a potential peace agreement. President Donald Trump has indicated that he wants Zelensky to sign a peace deal with Russia alongside a security agreement with the U.S. and European nations, ideally during a high-profile ceremony marking the end of hostilities. However, Zelensky insists that security guarantees should be finalized and ratified by the U.S. Congress before any peace deal is reached.
This position stems from a desire to ensure that the Ukrainian public can trust in the support of their allies, given the historical context of past disappointments. “We cannot be so naive. We are not children. We have gone through this war for all these years, and we cannot just hand over our country on a platter,” Zelensky remarked, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Additionally, Zelensky affirmed that Ukrainian forces would not retreat from territories in the eastern Donetsk region currently under their control. He noted the importance of security for the 200,000 residents living in these areas, questioning what assurances could be provided to them if Ukrainian troops were to withdraw. “What should I say to them and what should our soldiers say? ‘Okay, goodbye. We are leaving. You are Russians now?'” he asked rhetorically.
In his comments, Zelensky also revealed that the U.S. has proposed security guarantees for a duration of 15 years, while Ukraine is advocating for a commitment of over 20 years. He stated that the document outlining these security guarantees is fully prepared for signing, but he remains cautious about the lack of guarantees against future Russian aggression.
As negotiations continue, the stakes remain high for Ukraine, which seeks not only immediate security but also a lasting assurance of support from its allies in the face of ongoing threats from Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discusses the complexities of negotiating security guarantees with the U.S., emphasizing the need for clarity and Congressional ratification. He remains firm on not retreating from contested territories, reflecting the broader concerns of Ukrainian citizens regarding their security.
Source: CNN