Russia’s Continued Attacks on Ukraine Are Pushing the World Toward a New War – President Zelensky

Russia’s Continued Attacks on Ukraine Are Pushing the World Toward a New War – President Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that if Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine is not halted by Kyiv and its international allies, the conflict could escalate into a world war.

In an interview aired on Sunday on CBS's popular television program 60 Minutes, Zelensky said,

“This war is not just a threat to Ukraine—it’s a threat to global security.”

He further stated:

“If we do not stand firmly against [Russian President] Putin, he will continue to advance. This is not merely speculation. His goal is to revive the Russian empire and reclaim territories that are currently under NATO protection.”

Zelensky added,

“Since the United States is a NATO member, it will inevitably be drawn into any potential conflict. Considering these facts, I must say this could evolve into a world war.”

On the Issue of a Ceasefire

Speaking on the possibility of a ceasefire, Zelensky emphasized:

“Any ceasefire must come with guarantees for our security. For us, a ‘just peace’ means protecting our sovereignty and independence.”

He was clear that Ukraine would not recognize any territories currently occupied by Russia as Russian, stating instead that Ukraine will seek to regain full control of those regions.

On Former U.S. President Donald Trump

Regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump, Zelensky said:

“I’ve told Trump many times—Putin cannot be trusted. Previous ceasefires failed because Putin never intended to end the war.”

What Has the U.S. Gained from Helping Ukraine?

When asked what Americans have gained in return for supporting Ukraine, Zelensky responded:

“All I can do is thank the American people. Their support has been incredibly strong. But with all due respect, the people who are dying are Ukrainians. So when we receive weapons, it’s not just to protect us—it’s to protect people in other nations as well.”

Zelensky also invited Trump to visit Ukraine, saying:

“I would gladly invite Trump to come and see the reality here. This won’t be theater—there won’t be staged actors on the streets. We don’t do that, and we don’t need to. He can go to any city that has suffered from aggression. All I said was: come and understand.”

With the war showing no sign of ending, Zelensky reiterated that the global community must treat the situation not as a regional issue, but as a critical threat to international peace and security.