In an exclusive interview with Axios, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that Ukraine and its European allies have agreed to present a ceasefire plan within the next ten days. This initiative comes after Donald Trump’s proposal for a ceasefire along current front lines.
“Some points briefly, as a ceasefire plan. We decided to work on this next week or within ten days,” Zelensky stated, revealing that coordinated discussions with European leaders have already begun.
Read: Zelensky: Rejects scenario of territory exchange with Russia – “It is not acceptable”
The Ukrainian president also emphasized that, to pressure Russia and force Vladimir Putin into negotiations, his country needs Tomahawk missiles and similar systems that don’t require lengthy training.
Zelensky: Sanctions are hitting Russia, but military pressure tools are also needed
Referring to sanctions, Zelensky noted they will have a “substantial impact” on the Russian economy, however Ukraine still needs long-range weapons systems to pressure the Kremlin into negotiations.
He characterized the last two weeks as “whirlwind,” referring to his meeting with Donald Trump on October 17, where the American president initially refused to approve sending Tomahawk missiles. However, shortly after he proceeded to cancel his meeting with Putin and imposed the first sanctions of his second term against Russia.
“If there are no negotiations, escalation will come anyway,” Zelensky declared, adding that sanctions are a “weapon,” but long-range missiles are also needed for pressure to work.
Behind the scenes of the Trump-Zelensky meeting
The White House meeting was characterized as “constructive but difficult.” Zelensky revealed that Trump proposed freezing the front lines, a proposal he initially accepted, but after Putin’s refusal to back down, the American president reversed his stance and proceeded with sanctions.
The Ukrainian leader mentioned that new American sanctions against Russian oil companies could reduce Russia’s oil exports by up to 50%, causing losses of $5 billion per month. Meanwhile, he expressed hope for “secondary sanctions” from Congress and support from European governments.
Next moves and international balances
Zelensky stated that Ukraine is working closely with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European leaders on a brief, practical ceasefire plan, similar to what was proposed for Gaza. Meanwhile, Trump is expected to meet soon with Chinese President Xi Jinping, an event that, according to Zelensky, could prove crucial for limiting Russian oil purchases from China and India.
“If Putin knows his energy facilities are at risk, then he will talk,” the Ukrainian president emphasized, stressing that the only way to deal with the Russian leader is through pressure and deterrent power.
