Zelenskyy urges Trump to visit Ukraine in speech marking invasion anniversary
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appealed to Donald Trump to visit Ukraine in his address marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion, emphasizing Ukraine's resilience and commitment to justice in the conflict.
In a significant address marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on former U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Kyiv. Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine's resilience in the face of adversity, stating that President Putin has failed to achieve his war objectives, insisting that the spirit and unity of the Ukrainian people remain unbroken. This plea comes amidst ongoing discussions surrounding negotiations with Russia, as Zelenskyy affirmed that Ukraine would not betray its citizens in any diplomatic efforts.
The address featured previously unseen footage from the underground bunker in Kyiv where Zelenskyy and his advisors had sought refuge during the initial hours of the Russian assault in 2022. Zelenskyy recounted a pivotal moment from those early days when U.S. President Joe Biden offered him assistance to flee the country, to which he famously responded that he needed ammunition instead of a ride. This statement underscores Zelenskyy’s determination to defend his country and reflects the broader sentiment of resistance that has defined Ukraine's response to the invasion.
Concluding his address, Zelenskyy paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the Ukrainian people, illustrated by his visit to a memorial in Maidan Square, where he laid roses as a symbol of remembrance. His speech reaffirmed Ukraine's resolve to pursue peace based on justice, emphasizing that, despite the trials faced over the past four years, the nation's commitment to sovereignty and integrity remains steadfast.