“Let America Force Russia’s First Move” – Zelenskyy on Ceasefire and Security

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy provided updates on Ukraine’s security situation and diplomatic engagements during a press briefing in Kyiv on March 15. He addressed military developments, ongoing negotiations, and international support initiatives.

Security and military developments

According to Zelenskyy, Russia aims to encircle Ukrainian forces near the Kursk region, but within Ukrainian territory. He emphasized that Ukrainian command is aware of Russian operational intentions and closely monitoring troop movements. The president urged international partners to assess satellite imagery to verify Russian military deployments.

Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s stance on territorial integrity, stating that no concessions will be made regarding occupied territories. He reaffirmed that Ukraine does not recognize any annexed regions as part of Russia and emphasized the necessity of continued defense efforts.

Negotiation efforts and ceasefire proposals

The president announced the formation of Ukraine’s negotiation team for discussions with international partners. The delegation, led by Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President, includes Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Deputy Head of the Office of the President Pavlo Palisa. This team previously participated in negotiations with U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia on March 11.

Regarding ceasefire discussions, Zelenskyy highlighted an American proposal for a 30-day cessation of hostilities across all domains—land, air, and sea.

“Ukraine was recognized for achieving a real diplomatic success in Jeddah, which is seen as serious progress. This complicates the situation for Russia—now it must decide whether it supports ending the war or intends to continue it,” Zelenskyy stated.

He noted that Russia has not responded to this initiative and called for increased international pressure to ensure compliance. Zelenskyy emphasized the need for the U.S. and its allies to maintain a firm stance and avoid any concessions to Russian conditions.

International support and defense cooperation

The Ukrainian president underscored the increasing frequency of summits involving Ukraine’s international partners, with another meeting expected in the coming week. The latest virtual summit brought together 30 global leaders, including representatives from Europe, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.

Zelenskyy noted that discussions focused on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, bolstering European defense capabilities, and securing financial commitments for military support. He confirmed that an initiative for the supply of 155mm artillery shells has been finalized, with procurement agreements in place. The Czech initiative, launched in 2024, has already delivered substantial ammunition supplies, with further shipments expected in the coming months.

Additionally, he highlighted ongoing discussions regarding security guarantees, emphasizing that NATO membership decisions should be determined by alliance members rather than external influences.

Zelenskyy also stressed, “It is a very bad signal to listen to Russia’s opinion on the contingent. The contingent must be deployed on Ukrainian soil. It is a guarantee of security for Ukraine and Europe. If Putin wants to bring some foreign contingent into Russia, that is his business. But it is not his business to decide anything about the security of Ukraine and Europe.”

Future engagements and strategic goals

Zelenskyy stated that upcoming meetings will continue to address military and diplomatic efforts. Coordination with the U.S. on next steps for potential ceasefire agreements is expected in the coming days. He also stressed the importance of diplomatic outreach beyond Europe and North America, calling on Ukraine’s allies to engage nations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America in efforts to consolidate global support for Ukraine.

The president concluded by reiterating Ukraine’s position on achieving a just and lasting peace, requiring firm commitments from international partners and sustained pressure on Russia to cease hostilities.