Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he hopes to bring Russia’s war in Ukraine to an end before next winter or at least secure a ceasefire by then, as he warned that Moscow shows no genuine willingness to negotiate.
Speaking after discussions with G7 leaders, Zelenskyy said there was a growing consensus among western allies that Russian President Vladimir Putin is deliberately avoiding direct talks and prolonging the conflict.
“Everyone sees that there is no desire on Russia’s part to end this – that it is playing games, that it is Putin who does not want to end it. But he must be forced to do so,” Zelenskyy said.
In a voice message shared on his presidential WhatsApp channel, Zelenskyy said that sanctions remained the most effective tool to pressure Moscow into negotiations.
However, he added that as long as Putin refuses the possibility of direct talks, Ukraine must prioritise strengthening its air defences, particularly against ballistic missile threats.
