• President Zelenskyy accuses Putin of trying to legally justify Russia's territorial occupation in Ukraine.
• Zelenskyy insists on a dignified peace and urges the necessity of security guarantees.
• New offensives are reportedly being prepared by Russia, contrary to claims of seeking peace.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of attempting to "legalize the occupation" of Ukrainian territories amidst escalating conflict. In a recent video statement, he emphasized the need for Russia to end its aggression, stating, "There must be a just end to the war, and it is Russia that must end the war it started." Zelenskyy also highlighted fears that Putin seeks to secure "territorial spoils" for a second time and mentioned historical failures to respond decisively to Russian actions in Crimea, which contributed to the ongoing conflict in Donetsk and Luhansk, according to India Times and AA.

Zelenskyy also raised concerns about a potential summit between Trump and Putin aimed at negotiating peace, insisting that "any decisions that are without Ukraine are at the same time decisions against peace." He affirmed that Ukraine would not tolerate any attempts to partition the nation, reinforcing a commitment to a "dignified peace" that ensures robust security arrangements for Ukraine's future. These sentiments were echoed in discussions regarding Trump's proposals, which Zelenskyy claimed Ukraine has backed since February, according to India Times and AA.

Contradicting any hopes for a ceasefire, Zelenskyy stated that Russia is currently preparing new military offensives rather than seeking to end hostilities. Citing intelligence reports, he remarked there is "no sign that the Russians have received signals to prepare for a post-war situation." These military preparations and troop movements suggest a heightened conflict level, with no indication of Russia's readiness for peace negotiations, as highlighted in recent statements and analysis, according to Reuters.

In his diplomatic outreach, Zelenskyy engaged leaders from India and Saudi Arabia to bolster support against the Russian aggression. He urged these nations alongside Western allies to maintain and strengthen sanctions against Russia until Ukraine is assured of reliable security guarantees. This move illustrates Zelenskyy's ongoing strategy to consolidate international backing for Ukraine amidst the critical negotiations involving potential peace talks with Putin, as reported by Reuters.