Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected calls from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky stated that he cannot accept peace agreements that lack security guarantees.
Zelensky emphasized that the war cannot be resolved simply by signing an agreement. He argued that a ceasefire without solid guarantees could easily be broken and lead to further violence.
The Ukrainian leader also noted that the conflict cannot be resolved by merely signing a piece of paper, as such an agreement could reignite hostilities at any time.
Following a meeting in Paris with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform calling for an immediate ceasefire and negotiations to resolve the conflict. Trump claimed Ukraine “would like to make a deal and stop the madness.”
However, Zelensky firmly disagreed, posting on X (formerly Twitter) that “a ceasefire without guarantees can be reignited at any moment.” He also stressed that millions of people still live in Ukraine’s occupied territories, rejecting any territorial concessions to Russia as part of a peace deal.
Zelensky added that Ukraine seeks a peace built on strength, with reliable guarantees to protect its people and sovereignty, highlighting the need for such commitments in discussions with international partners.
Trump, who has claimed that he could end the conflict quickly if elected, has repeatedly criticized the current U.S. administration for its support of Ukraine, especially its military aid.
Media reports suggest that Trump may push for a freeze in the conflict, using U.S. assistance to Ukraine as leverage.
Russia has made it clear that it considers a freeze of the conflict unacceptable, insisting that a settlement can only be reached if Ukraine withdraws its forces from Russian-controlled territory, recognizes the rights of Russian-speaking citizens, and agrees to neutrality.
