Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently expressed skepticism regarding Russia’s commitment to genuine peace negotiations. In a recent address to the European Council on March 20, 2025, Zelenskyy emphasized the necessity of maintaining pressure and sanctions on Russia, criticizing propagandistic claims from Russian President Vladimir Putin. He highlighted a lack of real progress in peace efforts, reflecting concerns about Russia’s sincerity in the negotiations.
Furthermore, Zelenskyy has accused Putin of prolonging the war by misrepresenting situations, such as the events in the Kursk region, and seeking to bolster forces for potential new attacks. He asserted that Russia aims to strengthen its military position before agreeing to any ceasefire, indicating a strategic approach rather than a genuine pursuit of peace.
Additionally, Zelenskyy has stated unequivocally that there will be no peace talks with Russia as long as Putin remains in power, especially following Russia’s attempts to annex Ukrainian territories through unrecognized referendums. He compared these actions to historical scenarios where aggressors demanded concessions under the guise of peace, underscoring his distrust in Russia’s intentions.
These statements collectively reflect Zelenskyy’s stance that Russia’s actions and proposals lack genuine commitment to peace, leading to his accusations of insincerity in the ongoing negotiations.
