Full Breakdown
Zelensky Defines Victory Amid Ongoing Conflict with Russia
9/8/2025, 9:59:02 PM
Ukraine's Definition of Victory
In a recent interview with ABC News, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky articulated that Ukraine's victory is defined by its survival and independence, emphasizing that as long as Russia fails to fully occupy Ukrainian territory, Ukraine will consider itself victorious. Zelensky stated, “For us, to survive is a victory. Because we are surviving with our identity, with our country, with our independence.” He underscored that President Vladimir Putin's ultimate goal is to assert complete control over Ukraine, and until that occurs, Ukraine's resilience represents a triumph.
Rejection of Moscow Meeting
Zelensky rejected a proposal from Putin for a bilateral meeting in Moscow, suggesting instead that the Russian leader should come to Kyiv. He remarked, “I can’t go to Moscow when my country is under missiles, under attacks each day. I can’t go to the capital of this terrorist.” While he remains open to discussions, he firmly stated that any meeting must not take place on Russian soil.
Criticism of Trump's Summit with Putin
Zelensky criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's recent summit with Putin in Alaska, asserting that it provided the Russian leader with what he desired. He lamented Ukraine's absence from the discussions, stating, “It’s a pity that Ukraine was not there, because I think that President Trump gave Putin what he wanted.” Zelensky expressed concern that the meeting allowed Putin to project an image of legitimacy on the international stage, which he deemed detrimental to Ukraine's interests.
Calls for Increased Pressure on Russia
Zelensky urged the U.S. and European allies to intensify economic pressure on Russia, particularly by halting purchases of Russian oil and gas, which he described as funding the Kremlin's war efforts. He stated, “Energy is his weapon,” emphasizing that stopping energy imports is crucial to undermining Russia's military capabilities. He also supported Trump's proposal to impose tariffs on countries, including India, that continue to engage in trade with Russia.
Security Guarantees and Lasting Peace
Discussing the need for security guarantees, Zelensky highlighted that any assurances must be based on the strength of Ukraine's military. He expressed that while he believes Trump wants to end the war, achieving a just and lasting peace is essential to prevent future aggression from Russia. “It’s important to finish and not to have the possibility… to have aggression again in six months, in one year, in two years,” he stated.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Putin’s goal is to occupy Ukraine. Until he can do it, the victory is on our side. For us, to survive is a victory. Because we are surviving with our identity, with our country, with our independence.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
- “It’s a pity that Ukraine was not there, because I think that President Trump gave Putin what he wanted.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
- “He can come to Kyiv,” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
- “Energy is his weapon.” — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
Conclusion
As the conflict continues, Zelensky's statements reflect a commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and a call for international support against Russian aggression. His rejection of meetings in Moscow and criticism of Trump's summit underscore the complexities of diplomatic relations amid ongoing hostilities.
