Zelensky emphasized the need to shift towards diplomacy.

There must be a shift to diplomacy, - Zelensky

In the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, neither side will achieve victory through military force. A transition to diplomacy is necessary, but it must "lead to a just peace."

This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara during a joint briefing with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Tuesday, February 18.

"It seems clear today that no side will win this war through weapons on the battlefield. Russia wanted this - it could not achieve it, and Ukraine was underestimated, but it has proven itself and defended its independence at a very high cost - the lives of its soldiers, its people. This indicates that a transition to diplomacy must occur, but it should still lead to a just peace,” - Zelensky said.

According to him, if Vladimir Putin has the goodwill to end the war, he must first return all prisoners. However, today, none of the leading negotiating parties (the USA and Russia - ed.) mention this.

"Why say these unnecessary words that people should not die? When thousands of people need to be returned who are currently in captivity,” - the president added.

In turn, Zelensky canceled his visit to Saudi Arabia, which was scheduled for Wednesday.