Zelensky says Ukraine ready for peace, questions Russia’s intentions

President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in his evening video address, Ukrinform reports.

“Later today, there will be a report from the delegation following the first round of talks in Geneva. The team absolutely must raise the issue of these strikes – first of all with the American side, which proposed that both us and Russia refrain from attacks. Ukraine is ready. We do not need war. And we always act symmetrically – we are defending our state and our independence. Likewise, we are ready to move quickly toward a just agreement to end the war. The only question is for the Russians: what do they want? And also, whether there will be consequences for Russia for the fact that ‘shaheds’, missiles, and fantasy chatter about history matter more to them than real diplomacy, diplomacy and lasting peace,” Zelensky said.

He emphasized that Russia responded to the very start of another round of talks in Geneva with an attack. “This very clearly shows what Russia wants and what it is truly intent on. Almost 400 drones were launched,” the President said.

According to him, recovery and rescue operations continue in Odesa after last night’s strikes.

“There were major power outages in the city and in nearby communities of the Odesa region. People were also left without heat and water. Unfortunately, as of this moment, restoration has not yet been completed – work is ongoing. I instructed that Odesa be given all necessary support and that recovery efforts be accelerated,” the Head of State said.

Zelensky also praised the work of Ukraine’s air defense forces: “29 missiles of various types were fired, and 25 were shot down. This is an important result for our air defense, and once again, we emphasize that air defense is a daily necessity. I thank all our partners who understand this.”

As reported, a new round of trilateral talks involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia began today in Geneva. The Ukrainian delegation is operating within a framework approved by the President and has a clear mandate.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine