- February 23, 2025
- 7:41 pm
- Video
In his latest statement, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky expressed a categorical rejection of the terms of an agreement with the USA that could burden the country with debt for decades to come. Learn all the details of why Ukraine is not ready for such economic concessions.
At a press conference on February 23, 2025, Zelensky shared many important statements regarding the current political situation, international relations, and the future of Ukraine. He discussed his views on negotiations with the USA and outlined the main challenges the country faces amid the ongoing conflict.
Key Points of Zelensky’s Press Conference
1. Refusal to Sign the Agreement with the USA: “I will not sign something that will require 10 generations of Ukrainians to pay”
Zelensky delivered a categorical refusal to sign an agreement in which Ukraine would have to repay huge sums for the use of its natural resources.
“I am not going to recognize $500 billion, with all due respect,” he stated.
The President noted that terms requiring debt repayments over several decades are unacceptable for Ukraine, and the country is not ready for such long-term financial commitments. In his statement, he emphasized that Ukraine does not view American aid as debt, especially if that aid comes with double the repayment. He stressed that he opposes recognizing the American aid provided by President Joe Biden’s administration as debt—a position insisted upon by the Trump White House.
“We must not recognize grants as debts. Whether you like it or not. I reached an agreement with Biden and negotiated with the United States Congress. I am grateful to Congress. It was supported by both parties,” he said.
“I know what agreements are… That is, for every dollar given by the USA, Ukraine must repay two. In simple terms—it’s 100% credit… If, for example, the USA approves $50 billion in aid in Congress, then we would have to repay 100% on the credit,” Zelensky said.
“If it is forced and we cannot do without it, perhaps we should go along with it. But I have a logical question, and no one can answer it for me: When the USA sells weapons to Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—do they earn 100%?”
“Everything is fine, I just want a dialogue with President Trump… I will not sign something that will require 10 generations of Ukrainians to pay,” Zelensky emphasized.
He stressed that agreements should be signed in a way that allows the parties to remain friends and partners and to understand how to part ways—not through scandals and lawsuits, but on a partnership basis.
2. Ending the War Is Impossible Without Reliable Security Guarantees for Ukraine
Zelensky noted that currently Ukraine cannot end the war with Russia because it lacks proper security guarantees. International guarantees, which must be part of any peace agreement, remain a crucial aspect for Ukraine. Ukraine is not prepared to compromise on its sovereignty, even in exchange for ending hostilities.
“From Trump I very much want mutual understanding—to hear what is happening and what security guarantees Ukraine needs. Partly, this was in the plan for Ukraine’s victory, so that Ukraine would be strong at the negotiating table. And security guarantees from Trump are very much needed,” Zelensky said.
“Security guarantees can include economic agreements and similar measures, but not just any economic agreement—a proper economic agreement between our states as part of security guarantees. Therefore, it is necessary that the agreement contains what is currently missing—security guarantees that we will receive from the United States,” added the President of Ukraine.
3. Presidential Elections After the Lifting of Martial Law
Zelensky confirmed that as soon as martial law in Ukraine is lifted, presidential elections will be held. This statement reaffirms that Ukraine remains committed to democratic principles, despite the ongoing hostilities.
4. The USA Aims to End the Active Phase of the War in 2025
The President of Ukraine also stated that the USA is making every effort to end the active phase of the conflict in 2025. Support for Ukraine continues through the supply of weapons and financial aid, making the USA an important strategic partner for Ukraine.
5. Ukraine Actively Develops Its Military Industry
Zelensky noted that Ukraine continues to strengthen its armed forces by producing artillery, drones, and FPV drones. In 2024, Ukraine produced 154 units of artillery, 100,000 long-range drones, and 2.2 million FPV drones. These figures demonstrate Ukraine’s high level of military readiness.
6. Losses of North Korea and the Involvement of Foreign Forces
Zelensky also mentioned the losses incurred by North Korea, which lost about 4,000 soldiers in the Kursk region. These figures confirm the presence of foreign troops in the conflict on Russia’s side.
7. Development of Analogues to the Patriot System
Ukraine is actively working on creating its own versions of the American Patriot system to strengthen its defense. This statement underscores Ukraine’s efforts to improve its air defense capabilities.
8. Turkey and Ukraine — Two of the Largest Armies in Europe
Zelensky noted that in Europe there are two of the largest armies—the Ukrainian army (800,000 personnel) and the Turkish army. He also added that Turkey could become an important guarantor of security on the continent, playing a key role in ensuring stability in Europe.
9. Exchanging the Kursk Region for Occupied Territories
The President of Ukraine expressed his opinion that Ukraine might exchange the Kursk region for territories occupied by Russia. This statement opens up new possibilities for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
10. Continuation of Negotiations with the USA
Zelensky also noted that negotiations with the USA are ongoing, and in the new draft memorandum the demands for the repayment of $500 billion and high interest rates have been removed. This indicates progress in negotiations with the USA and improved conditions for Ukraine.
Conclusion
President Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine is not willing to compromise on issues of sovereignty, security, and debt dependency. In his address, he stressed that Ukraine will continue to fight for its independence and will negotiate with partners based on its national interests. Ukraine is actively developing its armed forces and modernizing its weaponry, as well as working on strengthening ties with key international partners, including the USA and Turkey.
