Zelensky calls for stronger US action if Putin refuses negotiated end to war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that if Moscow refuses to accept the terms for ending the fighting developed through negotiations between Ukraine, the United States, and Europe, Washington should move to apply serious pressure on Russia.

According to Ukrainian media, Zelenskyy made the remarks while speaking with journalists after talks in Berlin on December 15.

Asked what he expects would happen if Ukraine, the US, and European partners finalise agreements that are then rejected by the Kremlin, Zelenskyy responded with a metaphor.

“If Putin rejects everything, then what we have right now on our plane will happen — turbulence. It’s really happening to us now,” he said jokingly. “But of course, it is nothing compared to the war, and to what will happen if Putin destroys all diplomatic opportunities and intentions — ours, Europe’s, and America’s.”

Zelenskyy said that such a scenario would make it logical for the United States to escalate pressure on Russia and increase its support for Ukraine.

“I think America will pressure [Russia] with sanctions and give us more weapons if he rejects everything,” he said. “I believe this is a fair request from us to the Americans. Because, in my view, the logic is this: if Americans are ready to give security guarantees to Ukraine and apply strong guarantees if Putin violates them, then tell me honestly — how is that different from a situation where Putin simply does not want to end the war?”

He added that, under such circumstances, it would be reasonable for Ukraine and some European leaders to ask for at least part of those security guarantees to be provided immediately.

“I think it would be a fair request from me as president and from some European leaders as well — to at least give us part of those guarantees so that we can defend ourselves against Putin. Air defence, and give us long-range [capabilities],” Zelenskyy said.

During the briefing, the Ukrainian president also noted that the outcome of the negotiations is expected to be formalised in five documents. Some of these will address security guarantees, while others will focus on post-war reconstruction. He said there had been “serious progress” specifically on the issue of security guarantees.

At the same time, Zelenskyy emphasised that Ukraine would not agree to either legal or “de facto” recognition of the occupied Donbas as Russian territory.

According to US media reports, officials in Washington believe that as much as “90% of the contradictions” between Ukraine and Russia have already been resolved through negotiations.

By Tamilla Hasanova