Zelenskiy: USA Will Not Betray Ukraine
Ukrainian President Zelenskiy Stresses Importance of International Aid at Annual Press Conference
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine addressed the media during his annual press conference in the capital city Kiev. The president emphasized the need for continued international financial aid and weapons support to bolster the country’s military efforts in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Zelenskiy highlighted the importance of the United States’ assistance, expressing confidence that the US would uphold its commitments to Ukraine. He stated, “As for financial aid, we are working very hard. I am sure that the US will not betray us and will fulfill what we agreed on to the end.”
When asked about the possibility of negotiations with Russia, Zelenskiy noted that Russia has not shown readiness for such discussions, citing their behavior as arrogant and focused on military actions rather than diplomatic efforts.
Regarding the progress of the war, Zelenskiy asserted that Russia has failed to achieve its objectives in Ukraine. He stated that the Russian army could not attain its goal of occupying the entire country, signaling a setback for Russia in the ongoing conflict.
While acknowledging the continued conflicts on the front lines, Zelenskiy encouraged perseverance, stating, “If we do not lose courage, we will end the war faster.” He also emphasized the need for enhanced air defense systems and announced plans to acquire additional PATRIOT systems to protect Ukrainian airspace.
The president also discussed the prospect of mobilization and ruled out the possibility of drafting women into the army. He stressed the significance of mobilization as an issue affecting the people, justice, and defense capabilities of the country.
On the topic of Ukraine’s integration with NATO, Zelenskiy expressed his country’s aspirations to align with the organization. While Ukraine has not received a formal invitation to join NATO, Zelenskiy emphasized that integration with NATO remains their strongest option.
Addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Zelenskiy acknowledged the humanitarian crisis in the region and extended his condolences. He emphasized the differences between the situation in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East, particularly highlighting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a distinct factor in the country’s war.
Finally, Zelenskiy commented on the impact of the Middle East conflicts on Ukraine and his plans to visit Israel. He noted that Russia’s involvement in those conflicts affected aid to Ukraine and expressed readiness to visit the Middle East. However, he stressed that managing a state at war limited his ability to rearrange his schedule and traveling priorities.
