Ukraine war: Russia can only take Kyiv if it 'razes it to the ground', President Volodymyr Zelenskyy saysUkraine war: Russia can only take Kyiv if it 'razes it to the ground', President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says

In his latest speech, the Ukrainian leader hinted that future peace talks with Russia could take place in Jerusalem. He also took aim at NATO, saying the alliance has lacked “bravery” in its response to Putin’s invasion.

Widespread damage and impact craters have been seen in Moschun, a town northwest of Kyiv. Pic: Maxar

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Russia can only take Kyiv if it “razes it to the ground” – as he suggested future peace talks could take place in Jerusalem.

Mr Zelenskyy also said he doesn’t see “common consensus” for Ukraine to be accepted into NATO, before adding that the alliance has lacked “bravery” in its response to the invasion.

In his latest speech, Mr Zelenskyy said Russian and Ukrainian negotiating teams have started discussing concrete topics rather than exchanging ultimatums during peace talks.

However, he said the West has so far not been involved enough in the negotiations.

He said around 1,300 Ukrainian troops have been killed since the start of the war, and that on Friday, up to 600 Russian soldiers surrendered.

Mr Zelenskyy also said he hopes Israeli leader Naftali Bennett will have a “positive influence” on peace negotiations as he hopes for talks to take place in Jerusalem.

Earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict during a 75-minute phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday.

“The conversation is part of ongoing international efforts to end the war in Ukraine,” a German government spokesperson said.

Mr Scholz had earlier spoken to Mr Zelenskyy about the situation, the spokesperson added.

Source: https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-russia-can-only-take-kyiv-if-it-razes-it-to-the-ground-president-volodymyr-zelenskyy-says-12563859