Zelenskyy: Ukraine to boost drone range, favors ceasefire to save lives

Ukraine is advancing its drone program, with plans to extend the operational range of its unmanned aerial vehicles significantly. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that within the next two years, the range of Ukrainian drones is expected to increase from the current 3,000 kilometers to between 5,000 and 10,000 kilometers. This development marks a new phase for Ukraine's long-range drone capabilities, with projections for 4,000-kilometer drones this year and even longer-range models in the following year.

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If a ceasefire could be achieved tomorrow, it would be better than fighting for another 10-20 years for victory and losing our people.

Zelenskyy also articulated a nuanced view on ending the conflict, stating that a ceasefire would be the most desirable outcome if it serves to preserve Ukrainian lives. He emphasized that while Ukraine seeks victory, it is not at any cost. The president suggested that a ceasefire achieved sooner, even if it means avoiding a protracted war of 10 to 20 more years, would be preferable to continued heavy human losses. This perspective highlights a strategic prioritization of national well-being over indefinite military engagement.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy indicated a perceived shift in understanding from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the conflict's origins and Russia's intentions. According to Zelenskyy, Trump has come to realize that Russia is not genuinely seeking an end to the war, contrasting with earlier assumptions that Ukraine itself was unwilling to cease hostilities. Zelenskyy attributes this evolving perspective partly to developing trust through personal dialogue, suggesting that his direct communication with Trump has been instrumental in conveying Ukraine's genuine desire for peace alongside its commitment to defending its sovereignty.

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The president understood who really does not want to stop the war. He understood that we really want peace. Previously, it was said that Ukraine does not want to stop the war.

In discussions about potential sanctions and responses to Russian actions, Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine's primary focus on ending the war and safeguarding its population. He confirmed that Ukraine has developed a plan to bolster its defenses and retaliate against Russian strikes, demonstrating a dual approach of seeking peace while maintaining a strong defensive posture. The president also held a meeting with the commander of Ukraine's Joint Armed Forces to discuss further actions in response to Russian attacks.

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I think President Trump began to trust me. That was important. Step by step, I tried to explain the situation to him. I think he understood me very well.