Zelensky: "31,000 Ukrainian Soldiers Killed in 2 Years of War... 2024 Is Crucial"

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on the 25th (local time) that approximately 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died over the past two years since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He stated that 2024 will be a decisive year in this war and called for additional support from the West, including the United States.

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

According to daily newspapers such as The Guardian, President Zelensky held a press conference in the capital Kyiv on the same day, saying, "This is a great loss for us." This is the first time the Ukrainian government has officially disclosed the number of its military casualties. However, this figure falls far short of the scale claimed by Russia (215,000 as of 2023) and the U.S. government's estimated casualties (70,000 deaths, 120,000 wounded).

At the press conference held the day after the second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, President Zelensky acknowledged recent military disadvantages but emphasized his belief in his country's victory. He mentioned that while Russia fires seven rounds of ammunition, Ukraine fires only one, stating, "They have a significant advantage."

He also stressed that Ukraine's victory depends on Western support and urged the U.S. Congress to approve additional budget aid for Ukraine. President Zelensky said, "Whether Ukraine will be defeated, whether this war will become more difficult, and whether many casualties will occur depends on you, our partners, and the Western world," adding, "I am confident that a positive outcome will come from the U.S. Congress. If not, it will raise questions about the kind of world we live in." He also noted that most of the funds are being spent on U.S. defense contractors.

He emphasized that the additional military support promised by allied countries must be delivered quickly. He said, "Loss of time is loss of lives." European Union (EU) leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, are scheduled to hold talks on the 26th to reaffirm their commitment to supporting Ukraine. So far, the EU has reportedly supplied only 30% of the 1 million rounds of ammunition previously promised. Ukraine is also requesting Germany to provide the Taurus long-range cruise missile system.

President Zelensky viewed 2024, which includes the U.S. presidential election, as a critical turning point. This statement reflects awareness that if former U.S. President Donald Trump wins the November election, support for Ukraine may be cut off.

He also mentioned that Russia is expected to launch a large-scale offensive in late May or during the summer, and Ukraine is preparing accordingly. Regarding the limited success of last June’s counteroffensive, he confirmed information leaks by stating, "Our counterattack plans were on the Kremlin’s table even before the operation began." He added, "There is a clear plan for the new counteroffensive, but I cannot disclose the details."

President Zelensky emphasized his desire to hold a global peace summit in Switzerland this spring to discuss a peace vision with allied countries. However, regarding prospects for peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, he dismissed the idea, saying, "Is it possible to talk with someone who wants to kill you?" President Zelensky said, "Putin will not call me. He does not want to end the war."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.