Zelenskyy: Unconditional Ceasefire First, Then the Tough Questions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that any potential peace talks with Russia must begin with an unconditional ceasefire before moving on to more complex issues, he said during a press conference with Finnish President Alexander Stubb on March 19.

“When it comes to territorial issues, that will likely be one of the most sensitive and tough topics in future negotiations. But the first step must be an unconditional ceasefire—even if we have to take steps toward it, such as silence in the skies or silence at sea. Ultimately, though, there must be silence across the entire front,” Zelenskyy stated.

The Ukrainian President also warned that any reduction in Western intelligence support—particularly from the United States—would leave Ukraine vulnerable to Russian missile strikes.

“If we lose intelligence data from the US, we won’t be able to see the exact launch points of Russian ballistic missiles,” Zelenskyy said.

Zelenskyy further accused Russian leader Vladimir Putin of deliberately trying to conceal attacks from Ukrainian civilians to increase casualties.

“[Putin] wants us to be unaware of these attacks, so that our people don’t make it to bomb shelters in time. That tells you everything you need to know—this war isn’t ending. That’s why I don’t believe in making concessions on military aid to Ukraine. On the contrary, we need to increase support, because this is a clear signal that Ukraine is prepared for any surprises from Russia,” he added.

Earlier, Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready to support proposals to halt strikes on energy infrastructure, though he still lacks full details of the ceasefire plan discussed between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin.