Zelensky says Ukraine closer to peace than ever before, then warns against ‘appeasement of killers’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a powerful address in Ireland, thanking the Irish people for their steadfast support since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Zelensky praised Ireland for providing shelter to Ukrainian refugees, maintaining a strong voice for peace, and standing firmly for Ukraine’s independence. He emphasized that Ukraine is now “closer to peace than ever,” highlighting intensified negotiations following high-level meetings in the United States. Zelensky urged the international community, especially Ireland, to stay vocal, push for accountability for Russian aggression, support sanctions, and advocate for the use of frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine. Reaffirming Ukraine’s European future, Zelensky said Ukraine stands ready to join the EU as an equal partner and called for a united global effort to secure a just and lasting peace based on shared values, justice, and accountability.