Ukrainian president Zelensky considers leadership reset amid ongoing war and overdue aid deliveries
Zelensky responded to the rumours, saying that the country's direction was a matter for Ukrainian leaders to resolve. He reiterated that a fresh start or 'reset' was necessary. He clarified that when discussing a 'reset', he referred to replacing leadership across the board, not only in the military.
Feb 5, 2024 | updated: 4:19 AM EST, March 7, 2024
"While mulling over this possibility, it isn't wise to think replacing one individual will resolve all issues. This applies to the complete leadership team that runs the machinery of the state," Zelensky explained during his interaction with RAI.
Zelensky highlights Russia's lack of interest in peace
In his conversation, the Ukrainian president stressed that his words were not about one person but the entire state leadership. He assured that he favoured a peace process but noted that Russia considers peace as defeat.
Zelensky criticizes complacency
President Zelensky highlighted that some Ukrainians are acclimatizing to the ongoing conflict. He criticized this attitude as a significant mistake and an unfair approach towards those fighting on the front lines, warning that the conflict could eventually reach those who remain detached.
Zelensky insisted that the same principle applies to Europe. "War could reach them due to our entanglement with Putin. No one will be prepared when it does," said the Ukrainian leader.
Zelensky warns of potential chaos
He then asserted, "European troops aren't trained for this. It will come as a shock. There will be chaos trapping tens of thousands of people and causing migration issues."
Zelensky pondered, "What will Europe do should the Russian army invade? How will they defend themselves? Can NATO guarantee a prompt response?"
He disputed that the Ukrainian counter-offensive had failed, stating, "I wouldn't go so far as to say it was unsuccessful. The naval operation yielded positive outcomes. Russia lost many ships."
Zelensky admits to standoff
"Nonetheless," he conceded, "the land war is stalemate. There have been delays in equipment delivery, indicating mistakes."
Reflecting on almost two years of war, he declared, "We are not alone. We've also managed to unite world leaders."
Zelensky pointed out that about 26% of Ukrainian territory remains under Russian occupation. "However, the Russian army hasn't made significant progress," he noted.
When asked about the current state of Ukraine, he replied: "Ukraine has evolved; it's closer to Europe now. Our military is stronger and equipped with Western technology."
"There are times when we might feel weary or overconfident, but we can't afford to let Russia win with its propaganda, diplomacy, and finance tactics. We will win," insisted Volodymyr Zelensky.
The Ukrainian President expressed gratitude for the EU summit's recent decision to allot 50 billion euros in aid to his country.
"It's crucial assistance," he acknowledged, "without which defence would be impossible; we could lose what we have without this support."
Regarding this year's presidential elections in the US, the Ukrainian leader voiced, "I am hopeful that even if there are changes in the United States, the stance on Ukraine will remain the same."
