Zelenskyy Rejects Ceasefire That Leaves Ukraine Vulnerable to Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine cannot accept any ceasefire agreement that would allow Russia to potentially launch a third invasion. This declaration came during his visit to Ireland, where he received strong support from Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Zelenskyy emphasized that any truce must include robust security guarantees from the United States and European allies to prevent further aggression.

During a joint press conference in Dublin, Martin condemned Russian actions, highlighting the need for accountability for Vladimir Putin‘s regime. “Putin has shown a complete indifference to the value of human life and to international laws and norms,” Martin remarked, adding, “He must never be allowed to succeed.” Zelenskyy’s visit included a standing ovation from the Irish Parliament and meetings with Ireland’s newly elected President Catherine Connolly, who has been critical of NATO.

The visit coincided with renewed talks in Moscow involving Putin and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. Zelenskyy confirmed he spoke with Witkoff on the same day and anticipated a follow-up call regarding the discussions. Despite these diplomatic efforts, Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict, citing the need for guarantees to ensure that Russia would not return to its aggressive tactics.

“We have to stop the war in such a manner that in one year Russia would not come back with a third invasion,” he stated, referencing Russia’s earlier incursions into Crimea and eastern Ukraine, as well as its full-scale offensive that began in 2022.

Martin pointed out that any permanent ceasefire would necessitate that Russia faces significant consequences for its actions, particularly concerning the financial burden of Ukraine’s postwar reconstruction. He advocated for the European Commission’s proposal to utilize frozen Russian assets, which are primarily held in Belgium, to fund these efforts. Martin expressed hope that Belgium would reconsider its objections at the upcoming European Council meeting.

“When the U.N. charter is violated in such a brutal manner,” Martin said, “there has to be a deterrence of such behavior. There has to be some responsibility on the aggressor who has wreaked such devastation.” He emphasized the practical implications of Ukraine’s reconstruction, stating that the costs should not fall solely on European taxpayers, insisting that Europe did not instigate this war.

In a demonstration of solidarity, Ireland announced additional financial support for Ukraine during Zelenskyy’s visit. Martin signed an agreement committing €100 million for non-lethal military equipment, which includes resources for minefield clearance, and €25 million to assist in revitalizing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Despite being a non-NATO member with limited defense capabilities, Ireland has maintained its commitment to aid Ukraine.

Ireland currently hosts over 80,000 Ukrainian refugees, though it is facing increasing pressure regarding housing and welfare support amidst growing anti-immigrant sentiment. Zelenskyy acknowledged these challenges but expressed gratitude for the continued support from Ireland. “The question is not about the size of assistance. It’s about the choice,” he said, highlighting the importance of international solidarity in addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict.