Zelensky cited gains in Donetsk, Sumy, vowing Ukraine will keep defending every part of its territory
Washington
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has renewed his appeal for Russia to end the war, expressing hope that a united front with the United States and European allies will push Moscow toward a genuine peace deal.
Zelensky arrived in Washington on Monday for a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump at the White House. The talks will also include top European leaders and are expected to focus on Ukraine’s war with Russia and growing concerns about pressure on Kyiv to accept unfavorable terms.
In a post on X, Zelensky said he was grateful for America’s support and stressed that any peace must be lasting. He recalled past compromises, including the loss of Crimea and parts of Donbas, which only encouraged new Russian attacks. “Crimea should never have been surrendered,” he said, adding that Ukrainians defended Kyiv, Odesa, and Kharkiv after 2022.
Zelensky highlighted recent military gains in Donetsk and Sumy regions and promised that Ukraine would continue defending its territory. He thanked the US and European allies for their ongoing military and financial support.
President Trump wrote on Truth Social that Tuesday’s meeting would bring together an unprecedented number of European leaders. Those attending include German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
European leaders are expected to push for credible security guarantees for Ukraine while resisting any concessions to Russia. Macron warned, “If we show weakness today in front of Russia, we are laying the ground for future conflicts.”
