In a recent BBC interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made striking remarks on the ongoing conflict, warning that Russian President Vladimir Putin has unofficially launched a Third World War. Zelensky expressed concern over the potential scale of the war and the amount of territory Russia could occupy if it is not checked, emphasizing that Ukraine’s current resistance is key to preventing the conflict from spreading globally.
Zelensky strongly rejected Russia’s territorial demands under the guise of peace negotiations. He opposed proposals to cede parts of Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia, stating that giving up these regions would be unjust to millions of residents and would threaten Ukraine’s national security. He warned that agreeing to a temporary ceasefire now could embolden Russia to return stronger and more aggressively in the future.
Highlighting Ukraine’s defense needs, Zelensky called for robust security guarantees from the United States, particularly through the U.S. Congress, noting that while presidents may change, institutions remain permanent. He also urged global partners to authorize Ukraine to acquire advanced weapons, such as Patriot missiles, and to further strengthen its air defense capabilities.
On domestic governance, Zelensky addressed the conduct of elections during wartime, emphasizing that stringent security arrangements would be necessary. He has not yet decided whether he will run for re-election. Zelensky reiterated that any decisions regarding key territories should be made solely through democratic consultation with the Ukrainian people, reaffirming the principle of public consent in critical national matters.