PRESS RELEASE : Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Russia’s only truthful response on readiness for de-escalation is the withdrawal of troops from Ukrainian borders

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 1 February 2022.

Russia must withdraw its troops from Ukraine’s borders, which will be an important signal of de-escalation. This was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the meeting with the media following the talks with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson in Kyiv.

“Nobody needs a war. But we do not invite anyone with weapons to our land. I can say for sure that the state has changed, society and the army have changed. And now there will be no occupation of any city or territory. And there will be, unfortunately, a tragedy if the escalation against our state begins. That is why I openly say: this will not be a war between Ukraine and Russia – this will be a war in Europe. Full-scale war, because no one will give up their territories and people anymore,” the President said, answering journalists’ questions.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that it is currently difficult to predict Russia’s further actions, so both the world community and Ukraine must prepare for any developments and take measures to reduce risks.

“Reducing risks is a powerful, armed army that is not advancing. We are defending ourselves. We are defending our state. I think this is fair, because this is our land and our sovereignty. We protect our history, language, traditions. And most importantly – we protect our people. And we will do it,” the Head of State stressed.

The President noted that he expects Russia to withdraw troops from Ukraine’s borders.

“Actually this is the only truthful answer from Russia to the question of whether they are going to continue the escalation. No words are needed, just such a powerful and important step. It is psychologically important not only for the people of Ukraine, but also for the Russians, many of whom definitely do not want to fight against Ukraine and die,” he said.

At the same time, according to the Head of State, today, despite some reduction in tension, it is too early to say that the Russian Federation has withdrawn troops.

“Now we see a certain force rotation, but I want to answer frankly: I will be able to say for sure that Russia has withdrawn its troops when it withdraws its troops,” the President concluded.