Zelensky: Turkey is an important security guarantor for Ukraine
Zelensky: Turkey is an important security guarantor for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made statements about the US and NATO at a press conference. Zelensky, who said he could leave office if necessary for peace, also stated that he views Turkey as an important security guarantor for Ukraine.
Stating that he was ready to leave the presidency to ensure peace in Ukraine, Zelensky conveyed the message that he would resign in exchange for "NATO membership" if such an opportunity arose.
Zelensky said that Ukraine, along with the United States, Russia, and European countries, should participate in peace talks regarding the Russian-Ukrainian war.
He also mentioned that a summit would be held in Kyiv tomorrow, with 13 partners attending in person and 24 others participating online.
US Aid
Emphasizing that Ukraine does not owe the United States as much as former President Donald Trump claims, Zelensky clarified that Ukraine has received $100 billion in aid from the US, not $350 billion.
"I agree with (former US President Joe) Biden's view that this (US aid) is a grant. A grant is not a debt. We respect our partners, but we do not accept a debt of $500 billion."
Peace Talks and Turkey
Zelensky said that the agreement should be a win-win for both the United States and Ukraine, as well as its people, underlining that security guarantees should be explicitly included in the agreement, not just in the words of the United States.
"Trump will not stay forever, and we need peace for many years to come," Zelensky added.
He stated that possible EU membership would serve as a "security guarantee" for his country and mentioned that, "(French President Emmanuel) Macron is going to the US, where he will also discuss security guarantees. Let's see what the outcome will be."
Zelensky emphasized that not only monetary support but also political and sanctions support from the US is crucial for his country, saying, "I think the US will do its best to end the hot phase of the war this year. This is their goal."
Regarding the meeting of European Union leaders in Ukraine on Monday, Zelensky expressed hope that it would mark a "turning point" where Ukraine's security guarantees would be discussed.
He also stated that he considers Turkey to be an important security guarantor for Ukraine.
The Hot Phase of the War Must End
Zelensky stressed that the main goal was to force Putin to end the hot phase of the war.
Regarding Trump's "dictator" statement against him, President Zelensky said that he was not bothered by it because he is not a "dictator."
Zelensky explained, "There is a significant difference between the 4 percent Trump claims and the actual 65 percent of those who approve of me. The polls prove this."
Emphasizing that elections will be held after the end of martial law in Ukraine, Zelensky said, "The most important thing for me is what Ukrainians think of me."
Zelensky noted that 2.2 million FPV drones and 100 thousand long-range drones were produced in Ukraine in 2024, with production set to increase in 2025.
He also mentioned that 154 cannons were produced in Ukraine in 2024, describing it as a "record."
Zelensky stated that 20 Patriot air defense systems are needed, valued at approximately $35 billion.
Finally, he said that the closure of Starlink in his country "would not be right," adding that Ukraine would struggle without this capability.