Kyiv, Dec 11 (V7N) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected a call by US President-elect Donald Trump for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, insisting that peace is only possible with sustainable and reliable security guarantees.

In a message shared on Telegram, Zelensky stated, "The war should end, but this can only happen through a durable and trustworthy peace." He emphasised that the conflict cannot simply be resolved by signing agreements without addressing the deeper security concerns. "War cannot be permanent, but peace must be permanent and reliable," he added.

The nearly three-year war has inflicted significant destruction on Ukraine, with Zelensky citing 43,000 soldiers killed and 370,000 wounded during the conflict. The president reiterated that Ukraine will not accept any peace deal that undermines the nation's security or territorial integrity.

The remarks followed a trilateral meeting in Paris on Saturday, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace. The discussions involved Zelensky and Trump amid growing concerns in Kyiv about future US support under Trump's incoming administration.

Zelensky, reflecting on the meeting, said, "America has the capacity to achieve what others have not. To end the war, we need unity—unity among America, Europe, and all nations that value security." He also remarked that Russian President Vladimir Putin fears only "unity and perhaps China."

Trump has repeatedly claimed he could resolve the conflict "in 24 hours" if given the opportunity. However, his suggestions for an immediate ceasefire and potential reduction in aid to Ukraine have raised concerns among Ukrainian officials about possible concessions to Russia.

On his Truth Social platform, Trump urged an immediate ceasefire on Sunday, stating that "Zelensky is ready to make a deal and stop the madness." He did not provide details on his strategy but stressed the need for talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Zelensky responded by emphasising the need for a comprehensive and enforceable resolution, saying, "Ending the war is our top priority, but it requires unity and security assurances that ensure lasting peace."

As the situation evolves, Ukraine continues to insist on a resolution that upholds its sovereignty and addresses its security concerns, while international stakeholders watch closely for how the incoming US administration's approach might reshape the geopolitical landscape.

END/RH/AJ