Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed willingness to step down if it would secure peace for Ukraine, suggesting he could trade his resignation for the country’s NATO membership. 

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Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv, he also emphasised the need for a stronger US role, stating he wanted Donald Trump as a partner rather than just a mediator in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.

"I really want it to be more than just mediation... that's not enough," he remarked, as reported by Reuters.

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Zelensky's response to Trump’s ‘dictator’ remark  

Zelensky said Sunday that only a true authoritarian would be offended by US President Trump's recent remark describing him as an illegitimate "dictator."

"I certainly would not describe the words Trump used as a compliment. One would be offended by the word dictator if he was a dictator. I’m not. I'm the legally elected president." 

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Seeks meeting with US president before Trump-Putin summit

He also expressed his intention to meet with the US president before a possible Trump-Putin summit. 

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Emphasises Ukraine’s struggle for peace and respect

In a post on X, Zelensky emphasised Ukraine’s efforts toward lasting peace.

"Ukrainians have come a long way. And this year, we must do everything possible and impossible to achieve real peace—peace with security guarantees for our state, with guarantees of dignity and respect for all our people—for everyone who has lived, lives, and will live in Ukraine. The people of Ukraine deserve respect—just as every nation on Earth does. And just as every person does—those who are fighting, those who have raised truly heroic sons and daughters. I thank every Ukrainian warrior, all the families of our defenders, and everyone who stands with Ukraine—thank you for keeping Ukraine alive," he wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)