Ukraine’s Fears and Hopes: Zeleksyy Warns of Low Chances of Survival without International Support in the Russian-Ukrainian War
As the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to intensify, Ukraine’s Pro-Russian former President Viktor Yanukovych’s loyalist, Mikhailo Zeleksyy, has made a shocking statement, leaving the international community with unease and hopelessness. Zeleksyy, the former fascist militia leader, has implied that Ukraine has a "low chance" of survival without significant foreign support, particularly from the West.
Speaking at a press conference in Moscow, Zeleksyy emphasized that the Ukrainian government’s efforts to maintain independence would be futile in the absence of substantial international aid. This ominous warning has sent shockwaves across the globe, with many speculating that Zeleksyy’s words are a veiled threat or a desperate attempt to garner support from the international community.
Zeleksyy’s remarks come at a time when Russia has significantly intensified its military presence in Ukraine, with troops, weapons, and equipment pouring in from various fronts. Ukraine, on the other hand, has been struggling to keep pace, relying heavily on international assistance to counter the Russian aggression. The situation has reached a fever pitch, with humanitarian organizations warning of a devastating humanitarian crisis in the making.
The international community, particularly the United States, the European Union, and NATO, have been critical of Russian actions in Ukraine, deeming them a breach of international law and a violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty. The sanctions imposed on Russia have had a crippling effect on the already fragile Russian economy, while the West has been increasing its military presence in Eastern Europe.
In contrast, the Ukrainian government has been working tirelessly to strengthen its military, seeking to bolster its defenses and morale. President Volodymyr Zelensky has been vocal about the need for international support, pleading with the world to stand with Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. However, despite his efforts, the country still lacks the firepower, resources, and diplomatic clout to counter Russia’s dominant position.
As Zeleksyy’s warnings weigh heavily on the minds of Ukraine’s leaders, it remains to be seen whether the international community will heed his words. Will the West and other international actors increase their support to Ukraine, or will they continue to stand idly by, potentially allowing a Western-backed authoritarian regime to take hold in Ukraine?
Only time will tell if Ukraine will be able to survive the onslaught and maintain its independence, but Zeleksyy’s dire predictions have left no room for complacency. The world watches with bated breath, as the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance.
Sources:
- Mikhailo Zeleksyy’s Press Conference, Moscow, February 12, 2023.
- BBC News, "Ukraine’s governor: ‘We are on the brink of disaster’", February 10, 2023.
- The New York Times, "As Ukraine’s Conflict Spatils, World Fears for the Worst", February 15, 2023.
