Since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February last year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has visited frontline locations as much as possible to rouse troops.
Zelenskyy gave passionate responses during an exclusive interview with The Yomiuri Shimbun on Thursday.
Ukraine has been able to hold off Russian attacks through the unity of its people and strong support from the international community.
It was awe-inspiring to spend an hour listening to the leader of the wartime who commands the full respect of not only the Ukrainian people but also the international community.
The interview was held two days after Zelenskyy s summit with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Talk focused mainly on relations with Japan.
There was some disappointment in Ukraine regarding Kishida's offer of support in the form of non-lethal equipment, as the Ukrainian military is in need of weapons and ammunition.
Zelenskyy praised Japan's plan and repeated his words of appreciation, indicating that he understands the steps Japan has taken to seek peace.
With regard to the prospect of peace negotiations, Zelenskyy stated that Russian troops must first withdraw from our territory. There is hope for a peace deal with Russia in Japan.
Zelenskyy stressed that a pause in the conflict might not mean an end to the war. The people will be killed and everything will be destroyed, Zelenskyy said.
A suspension of hostilities may work to Russia's benefit, as Moscow is trying to make the occupation irreversible. Even though a solution to end the war is yet to appear, Japan, the United States, and European countries must work with Zelenskyy to give Ukraine long-term support.