Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this week that Russian President Vladimir Putin has effectively launched World War III and warned that Moscow’s broader objectives extend far beyond Ukraine’s borders. Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Zelenskyy maintained that continued international pressure, including sanctions and military assistance, is the only way to prevent further escalation.

“The question is how much territory he will be able to seize and how to stop him,” Zelenskyy said, arguing that Russia seeks to impose a different global order and alter the way of life chosen by sovereign nations. He added that preventing Russia from occupying Ukraine would constitute a victory not only for Kyiv but for the wider international community, asserting that Putin would not stop at Ukraine.

Zelenskyy firmly rejected demands from Moscow tied to potential ceasefire discussions. Russia is calling for Ukraine to relinquish roughly 20% of the eastern Donetsk region still under Kyiv’s control, along with territory in the southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. Zelenskyy said surrendering land would weaken Ukraine’s national position and abandon hundreds of thousands of citizens living in those areas.

He also warned that any concession would likely serve only as a temporary pause for Russia. According to Zelenskyy, European partners estimate it could take Moscow three to five years to rebuild its military strength, though he suggested the timeline could be shorter.

President Donald Trump, speaking ahead of recent ceasefire discussions in Geneva, said Ukraine “better come to the table fast.” Western diplomats have reported that Trump believes territorial compromise may be necessary to secure a deal, though no formal agreement has been reached.

While some analysts contend Ukraine risks losing the war without concessions, Zelenskyy dismissed that assessment, stating that the country is fighting for its independence and remains confident in the eventual recovery of its territory. He acknowledged that Ukraine currently lacks sufficient weapons and manpower to immediately reclaim all occupied areas, emphasizing that future success depends heavily on continued support from international partners.

Zelenskyy also called for long-term security guarantees from the United States, arguing that commitments should extend beyond any single administration and receive approval from Congress to ensure durability over time.