Zelensky calls for ceasefire for elections and criticizes pressure for concessions at Munich

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference on February 14, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the ongoing conflict and upcoming diplomatic efforts. He expressed hope that US-mediated trilateral peace talks scheduled for the following week in Geneva would be substantive. However, Zelensky voiced concern over increasing pressure from the United States to make concessions, noting that such demands are frequently focused on Ukraine rather than Russia. He specifically mentioned feeling pressure from US President Donald Trump to reach a peace agreement quickly. Zelensky proposed a two-month ceasefire, stating that if achieved, the Ukrainian parliament would amend legislation to allow for national elections. During his speech, he described Vladimir Putin as a "slave of war" and commented on the Russian leader's absence from public view since early February. Zelensky emphasized that robust security guarantees must be signed with the US and Europe before any agreement to end the war. He also compared the current geopolitical situation to the 1938 Munich Agreement regarding the Sudetenland.