Ukraine cannot accept any agreements that contradict our values and Constitution. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this during a conversation with media representatives in the Republic of South Africa.
The Head of State emphasized that at the meeting in Saudi Arabia, the U.S. team proposed a full and unconditional ceasefire. Ukraine accepted it unconditionally – Russia did not.
“If Russia claims it’s ready for a ceasefire, it must stop its massive strikes on Ukraine,” the President said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine wants to end the war and receive reliable security guarantees. But the first step toward peace talks must be a full, unconditional ceasefire.
“We are doing everything our partners have proposed. The only thing we cannot do is what contradicts our legislation and Constitution. And that’s clear, because even the fight for our state’s independence, our sovereignty and territorial integrity is a matter of survival. And here we are absolutely straightforward and fully transparent,” the President emphasized.
The Head of State stressed the importance of bringing all children back home and releasing military and civilian prisoners.
“The first occupation of Ukraine was in 2014. People have been imprisoned in Russia for almost 12 years. We want to bring people back home,” he said.
According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, it is essential that the entire world support peace initiatives and force Russia to end the war.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed his country’s readiness to play a role in achieving peace and to take part in various initiatives, particularly those focused on the return of children.
“We would like to see an agreement first for a ceasefire, and secondly to bring the war to an end completely. I believe the United States, Europe, and of course the African continent would be willing and prepared to play a productive role. This is what we as South Africa are prepared to do,” he emphasized.
