Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is edging closer to a possible peace agreement with Russia but warned that the final steps will determine whether the war truly ends or merely pauses before resuming, according to Anadolu Agency.
In a New Year’s Eve address released late Wednesday on Telegram, Zelenskyy said negotiations are “90 percent ready,” leaving what he described as a decisive remaining 10 percent. That final margin, he said, carries consequences far beyond arithmetic.
“Ten percent remains. And that is far more than just numbers,” Zelenskyy said. “Those are the ten percent that will determine the fate of peace, the fate of Ukraine and Europe.”
As the war approaches its fourth year, Zelenskyy acknowledged the immense strain borne by Ukrainians, describing a nation exhausted by loss yet unbroken in resolve. He reaffirmed Ukraine’s desire to end the conflict but rejected the idea of peace secured through concessions that could weaken the country or invite future aggression.
“We want an end to the war, but not the end of Ukraine,” he said.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Kyiv will not accept an agreement that merely delays renewed fighting. Any settlement that compromises Ukraine’s sovereignty or security, he argued, would only entrench instability and reward aggression.
“Any signature placed on weak agreements only fuels the war,” he said. “My signature will be placed on a strong agreement.”
The president said all current diplomatic efforts are focused on reaching a durable settlement that ensures Ukraine’s long-term security and protects Europe from further destabilization. While he did not offer details on the negotiations, his remarks underscored both cautious optimism and deep skepticism toward quick compromises.
As Ukraine enters another year of war, Zelenskyy’s message struck a careful balance between hope and warning: peace may be within reach, but only if it is built on strength rather than expediency.
