While claiming that the war could last two or three more years, he also said that a ceasefire is acceptable. Zelenskyy's seemingly contradictory statements within a single day actually indicate that he has no other options. However, Zelenskyy once again brought up China, which is quite unexpected.

Zelenskyy's recent video speech

Recently, Zelenskyy made two statements during an interview, which sparked heated discussions. He first claimed that Ukraine can continue fighting for another two to three years, provided Europe "pays." Immediately after, he stated that a ceasefire is not impossible and even implied that Trump pressured China during the U.S.-China meeting, urging China to mediate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

One moment he says war, the next he says ceasefire; Zelenskyy's seemingly contradictory statements actually reflect that he has no other options. Last week, the European Commission did indeed propose a plan to provide financial support to Ukraine for 2 to 3 years. However, there is significant disagreement within the EU on whether to use the frozen Russian assets.

President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen

Currently, the EU has frozen approximately 210 billion euros in Russian assets, most of which are held by Belgium. Belgium has taken a cautious stance, believing that if they want to use this money, all EU countries must agree beforehand. If Russia retaliates against the EU, all countries would have to share the responsibility. In short, Belgium is simply afraid of becoming the primary target of Russia's retaliation.

Therefore, although Europe claims to support Ukraine, its promises are far greater than its actions. Zelenskyy's statements seem more like "strategic rhetoric," aiming to convey confidence domestically that the war is sustainable while pressuring Europe to fulfill its commitments. However, it is clear to everyone that even if Europe supports Ukraine, without the United States, the war would likely be unwinnable.

Thus, while seeking financial support, Zelenskyy has also shown an open attitude towards peace negotiations. After all, if the Russia-Ukraine conflict can be resolved through peaceful talks, it would not be bad for Ukraine. However, Zelenskyy's sudden mention of China is truly surprising.

Putin and Trump

Zelenskyy's goal is clear. Whether it's negotiating with Trump or talking about China, the ultimate purpose is to intimidate Putin, giving Ukraine more say in peace talks. Zelenskyy clearly defines Ukraine's position, openly stating that Ukraine has no means to pressure China, so he lets Trump take the lead.

Zelenskyy's clear understanding is essentially a strategic compromise. He voluntarily gives up the illusory posture of "strong pressure" and instead speaks from a so-called "weak" image, actually gaining sympathy by acknowledging his own limitations. At the same time, by adopting the identity of a "powerless person," he puts China under the spotlight, implying that China has the ability to influence the situation but chooses to remain passive.

China and Ukraine signed an agricultural products cooperation agreement in March this year

However, Zelenskyy overlooked China's position. China has consistently emphasized that it maintains a position of advocating for peace and dialogue. It has neither provided weapons to Russia nor imposed sanctions on Ukraine, and its trade activities with both countries are normal. This "neutral" stance has gained widespread international recognition, but Ukraine has been imagining things, trying to force China into the conflict through "discrediting."

Once again, China is not a "party" to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, nor is it the "backer" behind it. This matter is inherently unrelated to China. Moreover, with current U.S.-China trade issues, Trump is already overwhelmed and may not have the time or interest to care about Ukraine's fate. In the next few years, whether the conflict continues or a ceasefire is achieved ultimately depends on the strategic compromise between the U.S. and Russia. Ukraine's attempt to drag China into the conflict probably has ill intentions.

Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7566568931822010889/

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