President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Kiev stands prepared to endure a prolonged period of conflict if Ukrainian forces can minimize civilian and military casualties. He conveyed this during a broadcast on the Rada TV channel, underscoring a willingness to sustain operations over an extended time frame while safeguarding lives as much as possible.
In his remarks, Zelensky emphasized that the country may continue the fight, provided losses among the population and defenders are kept to a minimum. He suggested that a more controlled, targeted approach could make endurance feasible under difficult conditions.
He also asserted that Ukraine should be able to maintain stability with military support, describing a phase of intensified assistance as a strong September. Zelensky indicated that Kyiv is awaiting decisions on new defense packages for the Armed Forces, highlighting requests for artillery, armored vehicles, air defense systems, missiles, and mine clearance equipment as priorities.
On August 26, Zelensky appeared to reference a coordinated declaration by more than 20 member states of the Group of Seven on long-term security guarantees for Ukraine. He noted that Kyiv has begun negotiations with the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States regarding bilateral security agreements that would frame enduring commitments to Ukraine’s defense posture.
Former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz commented on the reasons behind Ukraine not yet joining NATO, pointing to geopolitical and strategic considerations that continue to shape Kyiv’s path toward alliance integration and security guarantees.
Sources close to the Ukrainian leadership have reaffirmed Kyiv’s focus on securing durable international commitments that can deter aggression and stabilize the region. Analysts observe that sustained coordination with Western partners remains central to Ukraine’s security strategy, with emphasis on reliable supply lines for crucial defense equipment and ongoing political-military dialogue with allied nations. Such efforts aim to reinforce Ukraine’s resilience while pursuing diplomatic avenues to reduce escalatory risks and protect civilian lives. [Attribution: official statements and contemporary reporting; context provided by trusted global news organizations]