Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled that he will be prepared to leave office once the war with Russia concludes, emphasizing that his focus remains firmly on ending the conflict rather than extending his political tenure.
“My goal is to finish the war, not to continue running for office,” Zelenskyy told Axios in remarks that offered his clearest indication yet that he does not intend to remain in power indefinitely.
Zelenskyy, who rose to international prominence following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, has frequently been dismissed by Moscow as an “illegitimate” leader. Earlier this year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the Kremlin would reject Zelenskyy’s signature on any future peace agreement.
“When we come to a stage where documents must be signed, there must be clarity on legitimacy—and Mr. Zelenskyy is not legitimate at the moment,” Lavrov told NBC News, describing him only as the “de facto head of the regime.”
At the United Nations: ‘Russia Refuses Ceasefire’
Addressing world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly, Zelenskyy categorically ruled out the possibility of a ceasefire, accusing Moscow of pursuing war rather than peace. He charged Russia with abducting thousands of Ukrainian children, striking civilian infrastructure, and destabilising European security.
“Ukrainians are peaceful people, even during bloodshed,” he said, asking delegates, “How long will it take to bring our children home?”
Zelenskyy also cautioned that Moldova risked falling under Russian influence if Europe failed to act, urging greater international support for Kyiv. Contrasting Ukraine’s limited arsenal with Russia’s vast military resources, he noted: “Ukraine doesn’t have the big fat missiles dictators love to show off in parades. Instead, we had to develop drones to protect our right to life. We succeeded in the Black Sea because Russia left us with no other choice.”
Appealing directly to global leaders, Zelenskyy framed Russia’s aggression as a wider threat to international stability. “The facts are simple: Stopping Putin now is cheaper than trying to protect the world’s ports or ships later. It is easier than a global arms race. War has already reached too many people. Don’t stay silent while Russia keeps dragging this war on. Please speak out and condemn it.”
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