President Volodymyr Zelensky has articulated what he describes as fundamental differences between Ukrainian and Russian approaches to the ongoing conflict, using Moscow’s latest allegations as an illustration of these contrasting methods.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Ukraine of launching 91 long-range drones at the presidential compound in Novgorod region over December 28-29. He characterized the alleged operation as evidence of Ukrainian willingness to escalate militarily even during diplomatic discussions. Lavrov warned that Russia would respond decisively to such provocations.
Zelensky rejected this characterization entirely, arguing instead that the controversy demonstrated core differences in how the two nations approach conflict resolution. He emphasized that Ukraine consistently prioritizes diplomatic channels and avoids actions that could undermine peace processes. The Ukrainian president contrasted this with what he described as Russia’s pattern of using false accusations to disrupt diplomacy while planning military escalations.
According to Zelensky’s framework, the fundamental difference lies not in specific actions but in overall strategic orientation. He argued that Ukraine’s approach centers on supporting peace initiatives even when difficult, while Russia’s approach involves manipulating peace processes to serve military objectives. The Ukrainian president cited Moscow’s current allegations as exemplifying this difference.
Zelensky called on the international community to recognize these fundamental differences when evaluating competing claims and assessing the viability of peace initiatives. He argued that understanding the contrasting approaches helps explain why diplomatic progress repeatedly faces disruption. The Ukrainian president emphasized that Ukraine does not take steps that undermine diplomacy, describing this as one of many differences between the nations. He stressed that recognizing these fundamental differences in conflict approach is essential to protecting peace processes from manipulation and ensuring international responses support parties genuinely committed to diplomatic resolution rather than those using diplomacy as tactical cover for military operations.