Zelensky Urges US Support as Ukraine War Enters Fifth Year

Volodymyr Zelensky is calling on the United States to remain firmly aligned with Ukraine as the war with Russia approaches its fifth year.

In an interview from Kyiv, the Ukrainian president urged Donald Trump to continue backing Ukraine’s defense against Russia, saying American support is essential to stopping the conflict and deterring future aggression.

Zelensky stressed that Ukraine cannot accept Russia’s demands or surrender territory, warning that doing so would threaten the country’s sovereignty and force many Ukrainians from their homes. He also said Ukrainians are exhausted by years of fighting, but giving in is not an option.

A major obstacle in ongoing peace discussions is security guarantees — specifically what Ukraine’s allies would do if Russia launched another invasion in the future. Zelensky says Ukraine needs clear and enforceable commitments, not general assurances.

He also disagrees with proposals to finalize a peace agreement before long-term protections are secured. Zelensky says binding guarantees should be approved first to ensure Ukraine’s safety moving forward.

On the battlefield, Ukraine says it is willing to freeze fighting along current front lines but will not withdraw troops from areas it still controls in eastern regions. Russia has demanded those territories be handed over.

Zelensky also addressed questions about Ukraine’s elections. His presidential term technically ended in 2024, but martial law during wartime prevents voting. He suggested calls for elections may be tied to speculation about leadership changes during negotiations.

The interview came after Zelensky attended a ceremony honoring fallen Ukrainian soldiers, where he presented awards to grieving families — a reminder, he said, of the heavy cost of the ongoing war.

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