PARIS: President Volodymyr Zelensky called upon the West to intensify efforts towards achieving a fair peace as Ukraine continues to fight the Russian invasion.
Addressing the French parliament in Paris, Zelensky told the lawmakers that he hopes that upcoming peace summit in Switzerland later this month on bringing peace to Ukraine could hasten a fair end to the conflict.
Zelensky emphasized the need for additional actions to ensure a fair peace, acknowledging the substantial support already provided by Western nations but stressing the necessity for more.
“The inaugural peace summit could become a format that would bring closer a just end to this war,” Zelensky said.
“I am grateful for all you are already doing and it is a lot. But for a fair peace, more must be done,” he said.
Reflecting on the historical significance of the D-Day landings, Zelensky warned that Europe, despite its past, is no longer a continent of peace after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
“Can (Russian President Vladimir) Putin win this battle?” Zelensky asked parliament. “No. Because you and I have no right to lose,” he added.
He dismissed the possibility of peace based on current front lines, underscoring that evil knows no boundaries and warning against attempts to establish temporary lines that could only lead to further conflict.
Meanwhile, Kyiv has been advocating for increased military support from Europe amidst concerns about Russia’s recent battlefield advancements and uncertainties surrounding the stance of the United States under the previous administration led by Donald Trump.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to transfer Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine and initiate the training of Ukrainian pilots as part of enhanced military cooperation. Macron revealed intentions to begin pilot training this summer, with Western allies considering Ukraine’s request for military instructors to bolster its forces on its soil.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Macron’s statement indicates France’s willingness to take a more direct role in the Ukraine conflict.
Zelensky will also hold bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden, who is in France to deliver a keynote speech on democracy in Normandy on the 80-year anniversary of the D-Day.
Joe Biden in his speech will reaffirm the United States’ commitment to defending freedom, democracy, and international alliances.
