-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Ivan Khomenko")
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently provided an update on the war’s toll on Ukraine, emphasizing the critical need for reliable peace guarantees and global action to stop Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy’s remarks came after his meeting with President Macron at the Elysee Palace and discussions with President-elect Trump.
According to Zelenskyy, “Ukraine has lost 43,000 soldiers since the start of the full-scale invasion. Over 370,000 cases of medical aid have been provided to the wounded.” Despite the severity of these losses, he pointed out the significant difference in frontline medical capabilities between the Ukrainian and Russian armed forces, stating, “Nearly half of Ukraine’s wounded soldiers return to active duty after treatment.”
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to those contributing to the development of military medicine in Ukraine.
He also noted that “Russia has been suffering losses at a ratio of 5:1, or even 6:1, since September 2024.” Despite these heavy losses, he warned that any ceasefire without guarantees could quickly be undermined, emphasizing, “Russia has a history of violating such agreements.”
The president stressed that peace must ensure the safety and territorial integrity of Ukraine, adding, “Russia’s continued attempts to destabilize neighboring countries like Georgia and Moldova make it clear that the war cannot be resolved without robust peace assurances.” He called for international unity to confront Russia and ensure lasting peace.
Zelenskyy further discussed ongoing efforts to bring back Ukrainian prisoners held by Russia, stating, “We have repatriated 3,935 individuals—both military and civilian—since February 2022.” He emphasized the importance of continuing these efforts until all Ukrainians are returned home.
The president also addressed the issue of Ukrainian children forcibly deported by Russia, stressing, “Thousands of children have been separated from their families and scattered across Russian territory.” This remains one of the most challenging issues of the war.
In conclusion, Zelenskyy reinforced that “peace can only be achieved through strength and international cooperation,” particularly from the United States, which he described as “the one power that Putin fears.”
He reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to pursuing a just and lasting peace based on reliable guarantees, not temporary agreements that could reignite the war at any moment.
