Zelenskyy: Ukraine expects strong U.S. response if Russia rejects ceasefire

He made this statement during a press conference on March 12, as reported by Ukrinform.

"Strong steps against the Russian side. I understand that we can count on strong steps. I don't know the details yet, but we are talking about sanctions and strengthening Ukraine," Zelenskyy said.

According to him, the American side wanted Ukraine to demonstrate readiness for swift steps toward ending the war.

"After that, if Ukraine demonstrates this, the American side gave us its word on restoring assistance. And the American side followed through. So I consider this a positive development," the president commented on the results of negotiations in Saudi Arabia.

The head of state also emphasized that the discussions were highly constructive and that European partners expressed their support for Ukraine.

"After that, our European colleagues, who also supported our serious steps toward ending the war, demonstrated their backing. And they said that the ball is in Russia’s court. And that is a fact. So I think sanctions or other measures of pressure on Russia will depend on the American side and their dialogue with Russia. If I understand correctly: peace through strength," Zelenskyy noted.

He expressed hope that "the American side will demonstrate exactly what they promised" if Russia does not show willingness for peace.

• On March 11, a meeting took place in Jeddah between Ukrainian and American delegations. As a result, Kyiv agreed to a 30-day ceasefire with Russia, while the U.S. pledged to resume intelligence-sharing and security assistance.