Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed an exchange of all prisoners of war with Russia and called for long term peace as the country marked the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
“Russia must release Ukrainians. Ukraine is ready to exchange all for all, and this is a fair way to start,” AFP quoted Zelenskyy as saying in a summit in Kyiv on Monday.
He also called long-term and sustainable peace in Ukraine this year, in comments marking the third anniversary of the Russian invasion.
“This year should be the year of the beginning of a real, lasting peace. Putin will not give us peace or give it to us in exchange for something. We have to win peace through strength and wisdom and unity,” Zelensky said.
Earlier, Zelenskyy hailed the “heroism” of Ukraine in giving resistance to Russia’s invasion in the country.
“Three years of resistance. Three years of gratitude. Three years of absolute heroism of Ukrainians. I am proud of Ukraine! I thank everyone who defends and supports it. Everyone who works for Ukraine. And may the memory of all those who gave their lives for our state and people be eternal,” Zelenskyy said in a post on X.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s initiation of what he termed a “special military operation” triggered Europe’s most significant conflict since the Second World War.
The devastating toll includes countless military casualties on both sides, along with Ukrainian civilian deaths. The warfare has left southern and eastern cities in ruins, compelling millions to abandon their residences.
Despite initial Western unity behind Ukraine and Zelenskyy, the prospect of Trump’s White House return has created uncertainty. This development jeopardised crucial military and financial assistance at a pivotal moment in the conflict.
Russian forces continue their eastern offensive, whilst Moscow gains confidence from Trump’s diplomatic gestures and his reservations regarding sustained support for Kyiv.
