Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of trying to “legalise the occupation” of Ukrainian land on Saturday. Meanwhile, peace talks are gaining momentum.

Russia Must End the War

Zelensky said the war’s end depends entirely on Russia. “First and foremost, there must be a just end to the war, and it depends on Russia. It is Russia that must end the war it started,” he told Ukrainians.

Ukraine and Allies Demand Peace

Furthermore, Zelensky stressed that Ukraine and its allies share one clear goal — a ceasefire and an end to killings. “Only one actor stands against this, Putin. His only card is the ability to kill, and he is trying to sell the cessation of killings at the highest possible price,” he explained.

He added that what is needed is not a temporary pause, but “a real, lasting peace.” Therefore, he called for an immediate ceasefire. In fact, US President Donald Trump told him the same. Trump is set to meet Putin in Alaska on August 15 to discuss peace efforts.

Zelensky Backs Trump’s Peace Plans

Moreover, Zelensky said he has not heard any doubts about America’s ability to help end the war. “The President of the United States has the levers and the determination. Ukraine has supported all of President Trump’s proposals, starting back in February. Ceasefire, all formats have been supported,” he said.

He also accused Putin of aiming for territorial gains and legalising occupation. As a result, Zelensky vowed that Ukraine will not accept a “second partition” after Crimea.

Ukraine Excluded from Alaska Meeting

Next Friday, Trump and Putin will meet in Alaska to discuss the war that began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. However, Ukraine will not take part, despite repeated calls from Kyiv and European leaders.

Consequently, Kyiv is angry. Zelensky declared, “We won’t give land to the occupier” and warned, “any decisions without Ukraine are also decisions against peace.”