Exclusive: Zelensky's Bold Move to Secure Ukraine's Peace - No Compromises with Russia

Volodymyr Zelensky called on Donald Trump to publicly disclose his peace proposals if the former US president has a plan to resolve the Ukraine-Russia conflict. However, the Ukrainian president emphasized in an interview on Tuesday that any peace agreement that involves Ukraine relinquishing territory would be unacceptable.

"He should share his idea openly now, without wasting time or risking lives, and declare, 'My solution is to halt the war, end this tragedy, and put a stop to Russian aggression,'" Zelensky expressed to CNN's Wolf Blitzer, following his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. "He needs to explain his vision and how to counter Russian presence on our soil. Otherwise, he would not be presenting a comprehensive peace strategy."

The Ukrainian president responded, stating that if the intention is to give part of their territory to Putin, it does not constitute a formula for peace.

The frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Trump, has expressed his belief that he could negotiate a deal with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours. When questioned on NBC's "Meet the Press" about whether this deal would allow Putin to maintain the land he has taken, Trump replied, "No, no. I would ensure a fair deal for everyone. Absolutely, I would make it fair."

When asked about whether it would benefit Putin, Trump responded, "It could have been a subject of negotiation. There were particular areas, such as Crimea and other parts of the country, that many people expected could be in play. A deal could have been struck where Russia would have possessed less territory than it currently does."

Zelensky's visit to the United Nations coincides with Ukraine facing significant challenges in obtaining support for the war in the US. A faction within the House GOP conference openly opposes providing Ukraine with further military aid, and it remains uncertain if House Speaker Kevin McCarthy will approve additional funding.

During the interview, Zelensky expressed optimism about Ukraine's ongoing counteroffensive despite concerns over its effectiveness. He also reaffirmed Ukraine's interest in acquiring long-range missiles from the US, a decision that President Joe Biden is currently evaluating. Zelensky emphasized that it would be detrimental for Ukraine if they did not receive the missiles, stating, "We would experience a loss." Zelensky further conveyed confidence by asserting, "We are reaching the end goal, I am certain of it."

Zelensky informed Blitzer that he intends to meet McCarthy during his visit to Washington later this week. When questioned about those who doubt providing additional funds to Ukraine, Zelensky expressed that it is challenging for individuals who have not experienced war firsthand to equate issues such as civil rights or energy with the dire threat faced by a country under attack.

"It is incredibly difficult to comprehend the realities of war unless you have witnessed it yourself. Even if you were to visit a country embroiled in conflict for just one day, your understanding would surpass what you merely live, hear, think, or read. No, there is no comparison. It is an entirely different situation. That is precisely why I believe we cannot equate these challenges."

Biden recently urged Congress to authorize an extra $24 billion in emergency funds for Ukraine and other global requirements. Although there is bipartisan support for this funding package in the Senate, there is currently no indication that the Republican-led House will cooperate.

After delivering a speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, Zelensky will be heading to Washington, DC, for discussions with Biden at the White House, as well as a visit to Capitol Hill. In a surprise appearance last December, Zelensky addressed a joint meeting of Congress.

Zelensky's visit to the Capitol this week provides him with an opportunity to personally convince skeptical lawmakers to approve additional aid for the war. While the Ukrainian leader is scheduled to address an all-senators meeting, there are no plans for a similar meeting in the House.

McCarthy, along with other House leaders, is expected to meet with Zelensky but did not confirm on Tuesday whether there would be increased funding for Ukraine.

Nobody knows

When asked about the possibility of a significant advancement in Ukraine's military counteroffensive this year, Zelensky replied, "It's difficult to say for sure."

He further expressed optimism, stating that Ukraine has achieved notable progress in the eastern region.

Zelensky emphasized his commitment to acquiring additional long-range missiles from the US. He clarified that Ukraine's intention is not to target Russia, but rather to ensure a balanced level of battlefield capabilities between both sides. Earlier in the month, CNN reported that Biden is anticipated to make a definitive decision regarding the provision of Army Tactical Missile Systems, commonly known as ATACMS.

Not obtaining the weapons would be detrimental for us, warned Zelensky, emphasizing the potential increase in casualties both on the battlefield and in other areas. He also emphasized the necessity of acquiring additional air defense systems, specifically the US-manufactured Patriot air defense system, to safeguard civilian regions.

Zelensky expressed his alignment with US officials on the topic of tensions between the US and Ukraine regarding Ukraine's military strategy in Russian-occupied Crimea. He downplayed the skepticism from Washington regarding Ukraine's plan to escalate missile strikes in order to disrupt Russian logistics and resupply efforts.

Zelensky, however, stood firm in his defense of the strategy.

"Our civilians are being targeted by weapons stored in the temporary-occupied Crimea," he asserted. "They are firing rockets from Crimea into our territory. Naturally, we must identify the source of their attacks and take appropriate action to address the situation."

This story has been updated with additional details.