Kyiv, Aug 12 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Tuesday that the Russian army is "not preparing to end the war" in Ukraine, but is rather engaging in activities that suggest they are gearing up for new military operations. These remarks were made just before the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15.

Zelensky expressed his backing for Trump's resolve while urging the need for measures that would prevent Russia from "deceiving the world". He stressed the importance of maintaining pressure on Moscow until it ceases its military actions in Ukraine.

The meeting in Alaska, announced by Trump last Friday, coincided with his self-imposed deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire or face additional US sanctions.

In recent days, Zelensky has communicated with various world leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing appreciation to EU leaders for their support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also reached out to Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, Canadian PM Mark Carney, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, Kazakhstan's President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev, and Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson.

"I am thankful to European leaders for their strong support of our independence and territorial integrity, as well as their proactive diplomatic efforts aimed at ending this war with a just peace. We are united in backing President Trump’s determination, and together we must forge strategies that prevent Russia from misleading the world again. The Russian army is not showing signs of ending the conflict; instead, they are making movements indicating preparations for new offensive actions. Under these circumstances, it is crucial that global unity is preserved," Zelensky shared on X on Tuesday afternoon, India time.

"Discussions surrounding Ukraine and European security are a collective responsibility. Every decision must enhance our joint security capabilities. Should Russia continue its aggression, it must be held accountable. As long as they pursue war and occupation, we must collectively maintain pressure through strength, sanctions, and diplomacy. I am grateful to all who are aiding us. Peace through strength," he added.

Zelensky also relayed a statement from EU leaders who welcomed Trump’s efforts toward resolving the conflict and achieving lasting peace and security for Ukraine. The EU leaders, with the exception of Hungary, emphasized that the people of Ukraine must have the autonomy to determine their future.

In their statement, EU leaders expressed, "A just and lasting peace that fosters stability and security must adhere to international law, including principles of independence and territorial integrity; international borders cannot be altered through force."

"The people of Ukraine must have the freedom to decide their future. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be determined without involving Ukraine. Meaningful negotiations can only proceed in the context of a ceasefire or a reduction of hostilities," they concluded.

The EU leaders highlighted that Russia's war against Ukraine has broader implications for both European and national security. The statement concluded with a note indicating, "Hungary does not associate itself with this Statement."