Zelenskyy warned Putin that Ukraine could soon launch a ballistic missile strike against Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that the country is in the final stages of developing its own ballistic missile, which could potentially be used to strike targets on Russian territory.
In an interview with Sky News, the head of state noted that over the years of the war, Ukraine has managed to develop a significant number of drones and missiles of various types.
“Over several years of war and massive attacks, we have been learning, researching and manufacturing. We have created many different drones and missiles. We do not yet have ballistic missiles, but we are on that path; we are very close,” said Zelenskyy.
The President emphasised that Ukraine does not intend to stand idly by and watch Russian attacks.
“This is our response and our signal that we will not simply die in silence. We will fight back and grow stronger with each passing day,” he stated.
At the same time, Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine’s readiness to freeze the war at the current positions if this opens the way to genuine diplomatic negotiations on ending hostilities.
Responding to a question regarding the territories currently controlled by Russia, the President noted that this was not a matter of concessions, but of the opportunity to save the lives of Ukrainians.
“Freezing the situation, staying where we are, means giving people in Ukraine more opportunities to save their children and bring soldiers home,” Zelenskyy said.
The Head of State also stated that Ukraine had preserved its independence, calling this a great victory.
Following talks in London, the UK, France and Germany once again backed Ukraine’s calls for an immediate ceasefire and outlined the conditions for a possible long-term peace.
These include the participation of NATO and European Union member states in the peace process, the provision of reliable and legally binding security guarantees to Ukraine, as well as the preservation of frozen Russian assets until the war ends and compensation is paid to Ukraine.
Until a ceasefire is achieved, the allies intend to continue stepping up military aid to Kyiv. In particular, this involves increasing the production of air defence systems to intercept ballistic missiles and new commitments from NATO.
Zelenskyy also stated that he is receiving mixed signals regarding Vladimir Putin’s willingness to end the war. According to him, the final decision rests solely with the Russian leadership.
“If he wants to stop this war, we will meet,” said the President of Ukraine.
The Head of State added that he is ready for personal talks with Putin in any format. He did not rule out the participation of US President Donald Trump or European partners as mediators.
Zelenskyy also confirmed that Russian businessman Roman Abramovich had conveyed messages from Moscow. According to the President, during one such contact, he emphasised that Ukraine would not leave Donbas and would not allow Russia to achieve victory in this way.
