Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky directly appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to remain supportive of Ukraine as the war with Russia marked its fourth anniversary this week. In an interview with CNN's Clarissa Ward at the Presidential Palace in Kyiv on Monday, February 23, 2026, Zelensky said he wanted Trump "to stay on our side" during his State of the Union address the following evening.

The plea came on the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, with the conflict now entering its fifth year. Zelensky expressed frustration that the United States was not exerting enough pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. "No," he replied when asked if Trump was doing enough, adding that America is "so strong" and must stand with a democratic country fighting "one person" who embodies war.

Zelensky indicated Ukraine's readiness for a compromise, including freezing the front lines at current positions to halt active fighting. However, he firmly rejected Russian demands to withdraw Ukrainian forces from areas in eastern Donetsk region that Kyiv still controls, which amount to about 20% of the region and include vital industrial sites, railways, and defensive fortifications. "We can’t be such, sorry, foolish guys. We are not children," he said, emphasizing the need to protect residents and soldiers there.

Security guarantees emerged as a key sticking point in peace efforts. Zelensky insisted that any commitments from the U.S. and European partners must be specific, agreed upon, and ratified by the U.S. Congress before Ukraine signs any deal with Russia. He questioned vague assurances, demanding clarity on what allies would do "if Putin comes again." Trilateral talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. have stalled over sequencing, with Trump favoring simultaneous agreements.

Zelensky delivered a video address from a bunker on Bankova Street, reflecting on the war's toll. He recalled his famous reply to then-President Joe Biden early in the invasion: "I need ammunition, not a ride." Despite blackouts and war fatigue gripping Ukraine through a harsh winter, Zelensky affirmed that the country had preserved its independence and statehood, vowing to secure peace and justice.

Trump delivered his State of the Union address on February 24, the longest in U.S. history at nearly two hours, focusing on the economy and foreign policy achievements. Details on Ukraine were not highlighted in the initial reports. The conflict remains in a stalemate, with Russia making incremental gains but failing to achieve its initial objectives, while Ukraine holds key positions amid ongoing attrition.