According to him, true victory is not measured only by military successes on the battlefield, but by Ukraine’s ability to survive as an independent state.
“Survival Is Our Victory”
In a recent interview, Zelenskyy emphasized that ultimate goal is the complete occupation of Ukraine. For Putin, victory means the erasure of Ukraine’s sovereignty and identity. Yet, Zelenskyy insists that every day Ukraine prevents this from happening is a day of triumph:
“For us, survival is victory. Because we continue to exist with our identity, our country, and our independence.”
His words underline that the war is not merely about territory or weapons but about national identity, culture, and the very survival of the Ukrainian state.
The Trump-Putin Meeting and Ukraine’s Absence
Zelenskyy also commented on the meeting between and Putin in Alaska, which, in his view, granted the Kremlin leader what he had long desired — direct recognition from Washington.
“Putin had been seeking a face-to-face meeting with the U.S. President for a long time. Trump gave him that. Unfortunately, Ukraine was not present at the table,” Zelenskyy said, highlighting how crucial it is for Ukraine to be included in all diplomatic formats where its future is at stake.
Pushing Russia Toward Peace
For Zelenskyy, ending the war requires more than negotiations; it requires forcing Russia into peace through coordinated international pressure. He insists that sanctions, tariffs, and unified transatlantic efforts are the key tools.
“Strong with European-American unity, can force Moscow to step back. We must reach the point where Russia cannot afford to reject peace initiatives.”
Security Guarantees and International Support
The for Ukraine must be implemented immediately — even before the war ends. These, he stresses, should not only cover military assistance but also economic safeguards to stabilize the country during and after the conflict.
Recently, 26 nations have declared readiness to provide such that many of these countries are even prepared to send troops or contribute to support missions. Zelenskyy pointed out that Ukraine already commands one of the largest armies in Europe, with 800,000 soldiers, and said:
“Our strongest security guarantee is our own army.”
While Trump expressed willingness to support security assurances for Ukraine, he made it clear that U.S. troops would not be stationed there, instead calling on Europe to play the leading role. Zelenskyy, however, continues to push for a broader and more active international commitment.
The Zelenskyy-Putin Stalemate
Following meetings in had agreed to such a meeting. The Russian leader subsequently stated he would be open to discussions only if Zelenskyy traveled to Moscow.
Zelenskyy firmly rejected that notion:
“I cannot go to the capital of a terrorist while our cities are bombed daily. If there is to be a meeting, Putin must come to Kyiv.”
This uncompromising stance reflects Zelenskyy’s determination to maintain dignity and equality in negotiations. He has repeatedly stressed that Ukraine will not sit down at the table on Moscow’s terms.
Ukraine’s Identity and Europe’s Future
Zelenskyy has also warned that Ukraine’s survival is inseparably linked to In his view:
Ukraine’s army is holding back Russia’s wider ambitions.
The struggle for independence is not only Ukraine’s battle, but a test for the entire democratic world.
Conclusion
Zelenskyy’s definition of victory transcends traditional military concepts. For him, victory means the endurance of Ukraine as a sovereign nation, the preservation of its identity, and the freedom of its people.
Even in the darkest days of war, this vision projects resilience and hope. Zelenskyy reminds the world that Ukraine’s fight is not just for its own survival but for the stability and democratic future of Europe itself.
