In a powerful address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pleaded with global leaders to prevent Russia's war in Ukraine from becoming "frozen." Zelensky emphasized that the conflict must not be ignored, as any frozen conflict would eventually reignite, noting Russia's renewal of aggression after the failed attempts to freeze the war in the Donbas in 2014.

Speaking at the conference for the first time in person since Russia launched its full-scale invasion nearly two years ago, Zelensky acknowledged the difficult questions that many in the audience may have, such as when the war will end, the possibility of a third world war, and the prospect of negotiating with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky stressed that Ukraine has defied expectations in repelling Moscow's forces for this long and called on its allies to provide the necessary support for progress on the ground, which has been lacking in recent months. He argued that Ukraine needs more weapons to bring about a just and stable peace, highlighting the importance of not underestimating Putin's intentions and actions.

The Ukrainian President highlighted the setbacks faced by Ukraine in recent years, including the distraction caused by Israel's war against Hamas and upcoming elections in various countries that could divert attention from the ongoing conflict. However, Zelensky remained optimistic, acknowledging Ukraine's achievements in the early stages of the war and Russia's subsequent military, economic, and diplomatic failures.

Zelensky expressed gratitude to Ukraine's allies but criticized their timidity and slow response in providing Ukraine with better weapons sooner. He noted that the fear of escalating the war had denied Ukraine the opportunity to make military gains and had emboldened Putin. The Ukrainian President stressed that it was essential not to repeat the same mistakes and urged his allies to invest in the confidence of the defender and exert pressure on the aggressor.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, speaking at Davos before Zelensky, echoed the need for continued support for Ukraine. Stoltenberg emphasized that increasing the likelihood of President Putin understanding the high cost of continuing the war would pave the way for negotiations towards a just and lasting peace, where Ukraine maintains its sovereignty and independence.

The Ukrainian President's address at the World Economic Forum served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the need for international solidarity. Zelensky's impassioned plea urged world leaders not to allow Russia's war to freeze, underlining the significance of sustained support and providing Ukraine with the necessary resources to achieve a lasting resolution.