In an interview with CNN, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the United States, particularly Donald Trump, to stand with Ukraine on the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion. He pointed out that the U.S. has a responsibility to support a democratic nation that is fighting against an authoritarian regime, personified by Vladimir Putin, who he described as the embodiment of war itself. Zelensky argued that America’s strength is essential in halting Putin's aggression and suggests that a unified front against the Russian leader is crucial for the future of Ukraine.

Zelensky further criticized Trump's actions, suggesting that he is not putting sufficient pressure on Putin to cease hostilities. He conveyed a message of urgency, asserting that conceding to Putin's demands would be catastrophic for Ukraine. According to Zelensky, such concessions would lead to the loss of Ukrainian sovereignty, forcing citizens to flee or be assimilated into Russia. This warning underscores the high stakes involved in the conflict, as the war continues to inflict significant casualties and displacement on both Ukrainian civilians and soldiers.

The ongoing war, which began with a large-scale Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, is marked as the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II, having claimed tens of thousands of lives on both sides and resulting in millions of refugees fleeing Ukraine. This situation not only highlights the humanitarian crisis but also raises questions about international solidarity and the strategic responses by global powers, especially the United States, in confronting authoritarianism and supporting democratic states like Ukraine.