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Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed any possibility of an immediate ceasefire with Russia, maintaining his stance despite his nation facing increasing challenges in its three-year conflict with its larger neighbor.

Following enthusiastic displays of support from European leaders during a London summit on Sunday, Zelensky remained firm in his position that the conflict would continue until adequate security assurances are provided by Western allies.

“If you don’t have an end to the war and you don’t have security guarantees, no one is able to control a ceasefire,” Zelensky said, according to the Financial Times.

The Ukrainian president cited Russia’s pattern of launching military campaigns following previous cease-fire agreements as justification for requiring substantial deterrent measures before considering any military de-escalation.

“For us, security guarantees are confidence that the same things won’t happen after this hot stage [is over],” he said.

This stance contrasts with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s perspective, who maintains that previous agreements failed under what he characterizes as “weak” administrations of Joe Biden and Barack Obama, suggesting that a ceasefire could serve as an initial step toward a comprehensive agreement.

When questioned about French President Macron’s proposal for a month-long suspension of aerial, maritime, and energy infrastructure attacks, Zelensky withheld his position on the matter.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and President Macron announced their intentions to develop a framework peace agreement with Zelensky following unsuccessful negotiations between Trump and the Ukrainian leader in Washington. However, the London gathering, despite bringing together numerous leaders to discuss Europe’s role, failed to secure additional support for the Anglo-French proposal of a European peacekeeping force.

While Starmer expressed willingness to deploy British military assets in Ukraine, he emphasized the necessity of American backing – a proposition Washington has rejected due to concerns about direct conflict between nuclear powers.

Although Zelensky departed Washington prematurely without finalizing the anticipated minerals investment agreement, he later expressed readiness to proceed with the deal. However, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated on CBS that the agreement’s viability depends on progress toward peace, questioning its relevance if Zelensky “wants the fighting to continue” while Trump “wants a peace deal.”

Zelensky’s position in Kyiv may face scrutiny following his contentious meeting with President Trump, which drew criticism domestically and internationally. Despite pressure from European leaders to reconcile with the U.S. president, Zelensky has maintained his refusal to apologize to Trump.