Policy

One of the most difficult moments in history: Zelenskyy addressed the Ukrainian people

One of the most difficult moments in history: Zelenskyy addressed the Ukrainian people

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy holds a news briefing, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 27, 2025. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has addressed citizens with a statement in which he stressed that the country is going through one of the most difficult periods in its recent history. He noted that the state is under unprecedented pressure and a difficult choice may lie ahead.

He published a corresponding appeal on Telegram .

The situation in Ukraine and unprecedented pressure

In his address, the President said that the situation the country finds itself in requires maximum consolidation of society. He emphasized that the challenges the state faces are unprecedented.

“Ukraine is currently under unprecedented pressure,” said Volodymyr Zelensky.

A difficult choice for the country is possible

The President noted that a difficult choice may lie ahead. According to him, it is a question of the need to preserve the dignity of the state or risk losing an important partner.

“An extremely difficult choice may lie ahead – between loss of dignity or the risk of losing a key partner,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Oath and principles

Zelenskyy again recalled the oath he took in 2019, emphasizing that it was an oath, not a formality.

“I, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, elected by the will of the people as the President of Ukraine, undertake to defend the sovereignty and independence of Ukraine with all my actions,” he said.

The President separately emphasized that he would not betray the interests of the state, and that Ukraine’s national interest is fundamental in any decisions.

Cooperation with the US and other partners

Zelenskyy said that Ukraine will continue to work with the United States and all partners in a calm and constructive format.

“We will work calmly with America and all partners,” he said.

The President noted that Ukraine should not give grounds for discrediting and accusations of unwillingness to peace or diplomacy.

Negotiating points

Zelenskyy said that there are a number of 28 points that are in the focus of the Ukrainian side. He emphasized that certain points cannot be excluded, as they concern the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians.

“This is the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians, because everything else is based on this,” the President said.

According to him, the Ukrainian team works 24/7 to protect the key positions of the state.

Unity of Ukrainians as a key factor

In his address, Zelensky recalled the first days of the full-scale invasion and the unity of the people that was manifested then. He noted that today the country needs the same unification again.

“And this, in fact, is the scariest thing that can happen to Russia – to see the unity of Ukrainians,” he said.

The President called on citizens, politicians, and state institutions to act together and avoid internal conflicts.

“And now we also need unity, more than ever, so that there is a decent peace in our home. I am addressing all Ukrainians now. Our people, citizens, politicians, everyone must come together, come to their senses, stop the bullshit, stop the political games. The state must work, the parliament of a warring country must work unitedly, the government of a warring country must work effectively. All of us together must not forget and not confuse who exactly is the enemy of Ukraine today,” he said.

A call to society

Zelensky stressed that Ukraine has already been tested by pressure and ultimatums and has not deviated from its own principles.

“We didn’t betray Ukraine then. We won’t do it now,” he said.

According to the President, the next week will be difficult and eventful, and the enemy will try to weaken society. He called for this not to be allowed.

“And we will succeed,” Zelensky said.

In conclusion, the President emphasized that the Ukrainian people deserve peace based on dignity and freedom.

“Dignity and freedom. Glory to Ukraine,” Zelensky said.

The day before, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine has intensified work on the points of the new peace plan . Calls and meetings with partners are held constantly.

As you know, the full text of the 28-point peace plan that the United States is offering to Ukraine and Russia as the basis for a future agreement has become publicly available. The document, which Washington is seeking to push forward as soon as possible, has been published online.

Subsequently, the US increased pressure on Ukraine and Russia on the issue of peace talks . According to Reuters, Washington is insisting that Kyiv agree to a framework agreement to end the war by next Thursday.

In addition, the American Institute for the Study of War assessed the 28-point peace plan proposed by Russia and the United States to end the war in Ukraine. According to analysts, the document is effectively tantamount to a complete surrender of Ukraine and reflects Russia’s demands since the beginning of a full-scale invasion.

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