Kathmandu: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared that security guarantees are the primary condition for preventing future Russian aggression once the war ends. He stated that he is prepared to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin only if such guarantees are ensured.

Call for Security Commitments

In a statement released on Thursday, Zelensky emphasized the need for clear international commitments to Ukraine’s safety. “We want to know what countries will do to guarantee security,” he said, stressing that without firm assurances, peace would remain fragile.

Ongoing Military Preparations

Zelensky also warned that both sides are gearing up for further combat. According to him, Russia is deploying troops near its southern border, while Ukraine is testing new long-range cruise missiles to bolster its defense capabilities.

Moscow Rejects Ukrainian Demands

In response, Moscow has accused Kyiv of being uninterested in a long-term peace deal, claiming that Ukraine’s security demands conflict with Russia’s strategic interests. The Kremlin argues that such conditions could undermine future negotiations.

International Response and US Role

The push for peace also involves Washington, where US President Donald Trump is attempting to end the three-and-a-half-year Russian invasion. However, with little tangible progress toward an agreement, Trump is expected to continue the Western approach of isolating Russian leadership.

Allies Plan Military Alliance

Meanwhile, a coalition of allies led by Britain and France is working to establish a military alliance to provide Ukraine with security guarantees, reinforcing the nation’s defense posture in the face of ongoing threats.