Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared that Russian President Vladimir Putin has effectively triggered a global conflict, warning that the ongoing war in Ukraine could expand if Moscow is not stopped.
Zelensky made the remark in an interview with the BBC ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, stressing that the international community must intensify efforts to contain the Kremlin’s ambitions.
“I believe that Putin has already started it. The question is how much territory he will be able to seize and how to stop him,” he said.
The Ukrainian leader argued that Russia’s broader objective goes beyond territorial gains, stating that Moscow is seeking to reshape global norms and impose its own model of governance.
“Russia wants to impose on the world a different way of life and change the lives people have chosen for themselves,” Zelensky added.
Zelensky warned against any peace arrangement that would require Ukraine to withdraw from its eastern or southern territories, saying such concessions would weaken the country and abandon large numbers of civilians.
He also cautioned that any temporary ceasefire achieved through territorial compromise could allow Russia time to rebuild its military strength and resume aggression within a few years.
According to the Ukrainian president, preventing Russia from advancing further is not only critical for Ukraine’s sovereignty but also for global security.
The conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, has now entered its fourth year, with heavy fighting continuing along an extensive frontline and diplomatic efforts yet to produce a lasting settlement.
