Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s Determination to Oust Russian Invaders
When Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visits Washington this week, there should be no illusions that he can be persuaded to accept anything less than the removal of Russian forces from his country. The Ukrainian people, despite enduring hardships over the past 19 months, are resolute in their determination to expel the invaders. During my recent visit to Ukraine, I had the opportunity to speak with a wide range of Ukrainians, and it became clear that a negotiated settlement or cease-fire is simply out of the question.
One encounter that has stayed with me is a meeting with a woman at a center in Odessa that assists refugee children. She shared her story of serving in the Ukrainian military and being captured by the enemy during the Russian invasion in 2022. She experienced the unimaginable loss of her unborn child during her captivity. Despite her trauma, she emphasized her strength and the support she receives at the center. Her unwavering determination to not allow the Russians to break her spirit seemed representative of the resilience exhibited by many Ukrainians.
My conversations with other Ukrainians, such as the mayor of Kovel and the leader of a synagogue in Kyiv, further reinforced the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people. While they believe in their country’s ultimate victory, they also understand that it will be a long and arduous battle. One civilian-defense unit commander estimated that the war could continue for three to four years.
Given this unwavering resolve, it is essential for U.S. policymakers to consider the raw determination of the Ukrainians as they weigh their options. Any notion that the United States could end the conflict by cutting off aid to Ukraine and negotiating with Russian President Vladimir Putin is not only unlikely but also a ridiculous proposition. The fate of Ukraine must be decided by the Ukrainians themselves, who have paid a heavy price and deserve the right to determine their country’s future.
Even if President Zelensky were to suddenly change his stance and express willingness to negotiate with Putin, he would face significant internal opposition and potential loss of support from the Ukrainian people. While there may come a time when concessions become a possibility, it is unlikely to happen anytime soon. The Ukrainians I spoke with made it clear that they would continue fighting with or without U.S. support.
Contrary to some arguments, Ukrainians are not asking the United States to fight their war for them. Rather, they appreciate the assistance provided in the form of arms and ammunition. However, they also recognize that the equipment they receive from the U.S. is outdated and wonder about the potential impact of receiving the latest high-tech military equipment.
Ukraine is not without its internal challenges, including corruption and tensions related to maintaining national unity during wartime. However, these issues should not be used as reasons to abandon the Ukrainian people in their struggle against Russian invasion. To cut off aid or pressure them to give up land they have fought and continue to fight for would be a disgrace.
Above all, it is impossible to listen to the stories of Ukrainian survivors and not recognize the importance of their lives. The burden of helping them is one that should be shared by those who understand the human cost of the conflict.
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