Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s views and opinions about the Russia–Ukraine war, based on his most recent statements. I’ve highlighted key themes — his goals, red lines, and hopes for peace.
✅ Zelenskyy’s Position on the War
- Ukraine will end the war “on its own terms.” Zelenskyy has repeatedly said that Kyiv will not settle for a peace that compromises its sovereignty or territorial integrity.
- No compromise on occupied territory. He has emphasized that territorial concessions are “the biggest challenge.” Any agreement that rewards Russia’s aggression — by recognizing occupied Ukrainian territory as Russian — is unacceptable.
- Russia must be held accountable. In past speeches, Zelenskyy has insisted that “those who started the war have to be held responsible,” including for war crimes. He has said that “the time for compromise is over,” especially after Russia’s widespread destruction of Ukrainian cities.
🕊️ Goals: Peace + Security for Ukraine (Not Just Ceasefire)
- Wants war to end by 2025. Zelenskyy has publicly stated that the war must end no later than 2025.
- Prefers diplomacy, but realistic about force. While noting that Ukraine’s military has grown stronger, Zelenskyy has said diplomacy should be the first path: “We have to do everything we can to ensure that this war ends … through diplomatic means.”
- Security guarantees needed: Zelenskyy argues that any peace deal should come with legally binding security guarantees from allies (e.g., NATO members, EU, the U.S.), not vague promises. He has even said he’d be willing to step down from his presidency if it helped bring Ukraine into NATO — if that’s what it takes for long-term security.
🛑 What He Rejects
- No “peace at any cost.” Zelenskyy rejects any settlement that would force Ukraine to accept Russia’s territorial gains or undermine its sovereignty.
- No talks about Ukraine without Ukraine involved. He criticized efforts by the U.S. and Russia to broker a deal without Kyiv’s direct participation. “Talks … about Ukraine — and without Ukraine,” he said.
- No long, drawn-out war. Zelenskyy has warned against a protracted conflict, saying Ukraine cannot afford a war lasting many years. “I don’t think it will last ten years,” he said.
🔄 Recent Shifts — Towards Negotiation, But Carefully
- Open to ceasefire / partial ceasefire: In March 2025, Zelenskyy accepted a U.S.-proposed limited ceasefire on civilian infrastructure, like energy facilities, continuing efforts toward a broader peace.
- Still cautious of Russia’s sincerity: Even as diplomacy increases, Zelenskyy has said Russia “couldn’t care less about diplomacy,” calling for increased pressure on Moscow — including stronger air defense for Ukraine and beefed-up sanctions.
- Optimistic about an end — but under right conditions: Speaking in December 2025 during a visit to Ireland, Zelenskyy said now may be “one of the most challenging and yet optimistic moments” for ending the war. He urged allies to push for a “decent, dignified peace,” not just a temporary pause.
🎯 In His Own Words
- On peace and diplomacy (late 2025):“Now, more than ever, there is a chance to end this war.”
- On territorial concessions:“Our biggest challenge is the territorial issue.”
- On Ukraine’s approach:“For our part, we must do everything we can to ensure that this war ends … through diplomatic means.”
- On returning to civilian rule:Zelenskyy has said he’s willing to step down once peace is restored, emphasizing that his role is tied to wartime needs, not long-term rule.
🧮 What It Means (From a Broader Perspective)
- Zelenskyy is trying to balance between continuing the fight when needed and pursuing diplomacy when possible — without compromising Ukraine’s core demands (territory, sovereignty, justice).
- He recognizes that military victory alone may be costly or unattainable, so combining defense with diplomacy gives Ukraine the best shot at a sustainable peace.
- His openness to stepping down shows he views his presidency as a wartime mandate, not a power grab — which can strengthen his credibility internationally.
- But he remains highly skeptical of Russia’s intentions and wants Ukraine’s Western allies to stay strongly committed; otherwise, he warns the war could continue or return.