Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a stark statement regarding Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, asserting that one cannot stop him through gestures of peace such as kisses and flowers. He reflects on the missteps made by previous leaders in their dealings with Russia, particularly the errors made by his predecessors in failing to adequately respond to Russian aggression. Zelensky warns against the dangerous precedent of rewarding an aggressor, reinforcing Ukraine's commitment to holding onto its territories in Donetsk.

In a recent social media post, Zelensky articulated his concerns regarding European states' past interactions with Russia, singling out the annexation of Crimea and the support for separatists in Eastern Ukraine as critical failures. He regards it as a monumental error to trust Russia after such actions and insists that Ukraine must not retreat from the territories it still controls. The President's remarks come in the wake of ongoing tensions and conflict between Ukraine and Russia, underlining the necessity of a united front against hostile actions.

Zelensky's statements signal a clear refusal to negotiate or compromise with Russia in light of its continued military aggression. This position aims to rally support within Ukraine and among its allies, advocating for a robust response rather than accepting threats or concessions. By highlighting these historical contexts, Zelensky is not only seeking to galvanize his nation but also to remind European leaders of the ramifications of appeasement in international relations, especially concerning Putin's Russia.