Calling Vladimir Putin Not Keeping His Word, President Zelensky: Russia Must Leave Our Territory

President Volodymyr Zelensky. (Source: President.gov.ua)

JAKARTA - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he could not imagine a situation where he would meet Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

"We didn't have the opportunity to talk to the President of the Russian Federation because he doesn't keep his word," President Zelensky told CNN's Wolf Blitzer, when asked what it would take to organize such a meeting, as quoted on March 9.

"We don't believe him," Zelensky added.

Furthermore, President Zelensky reiterated that Russia must withdraw all of its troops from Ukraine, before it can carry out diplomacy, saying it is open to various formats if a withdrawal is made.

"Russia must leave our territory. And after that, we are happy to join forces for diplomacy. To do that, we can find any format with our partners after that (withdrawal)," President Zelensky said.

On this occasion, President Zelensky also shared a few stories about how he and his family faced the war, which has entered its second year.

"My daughter entered university and she studies there. My son goes to school in Ukraine. They are both in Ukraine. They are very similar to other Ukrainian children. We live with sirens," said President Zelensky.

"We want victory. We don't want to get used to war, but we are used to challenges. Everyone wants one thing, to end the war," said President Zelensky.

On February 24, on the anniversary of Russia's invasion, President Zelensky recalled his country's struggles since the invasion began a year ago, saying Ukraine would defeat everything and win this year.

"...we are strong. We are ready for anything. We will beat everyone. This is how it started on February 24, 2022. The longest day of our lives. The hardest day in our history. We woke up very early in the morning and haven't slept since then," President Zelensky said, as quoted by Reuters.

"The main conclusion is, we have survived. We have not been defeated. And we will do everything to win this year!" stressed President Zelensky.