Zelensky says peace talks need security guarantees for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said meaningful peace talks with Russia cannot move forward unless Kyiv receives firm international security guarantees. He argued that any settlement without those protections would leave Ukraine exposed to renewed aggression.

The remarks underscore a long-running demand from Kyiv: that diplomacy must be paired with concrete safeguards rather than vague promises. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly warned that a ceasefire or deal without enforcement mechanisms could simply freeze the conflict and invite future attacks.

The statement comes as Ukraine continues to press its allies for long-term military and political support. For Kyiv, the core issue is not only ending the fighting, but ensuring that any peace arrangement protects civilians and prevents Russia from regaining the ability to strike again.

Russia's full-scale war has left deep destruction across Ukraine and displaced millions. Zelensky's comments reflect the reality that, for many Ukrainians, peace cannot be measured by signatures alone — it must also include credible guarantees that the war will not return.