We must put an end to war with Russia this year: Ukraine's Zelenskyy

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) – Ukraine’s president said they must put an end to the 10-month-old war with Russia this year, in addition to not postponing any defensive capabilities that could speed up Moscow’s defeat.

“Modern Western armored vehicles, Western-type tanks are just one of these key capabilities,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an address to the Ukrainian people late on Wednesday.

Noting that he held diplomatic discussions during the day with the leaders of France, Denmark, and Romania, Zelenskyy said he will continue such diplomatic contacts every day with partner states and countries close to Kyiv.

“We are already responding and will respond very concretely and effectively to any new attempt by the aggressor to additionally mobilize and throw something more against Ukraine. With exactly what is necessary on the battlefield and for the protection of the entire territory of our state,” Zelenskyy added.

Zelenskyy also said Ukraine and its partners all share the same goal, which is to end to the war with Russia as soon as possible, and to restore a stable and lasting peace.

He said discussions are being held on his peace formula as laid out at November’s G-20 summit in Indonesia, which includes 10 conditions.

The peace formula also focuses on issues such as nuclear safety, food and energy security, and withdrawal of the Russian military from Ukraine.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​