Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy today called on the international community to actively pursue a “regime change” in Russia, arguing that unless Vladimir Putin’s government is replaced, Moscow will continue to destabilize neighboring states even after the war ends. Speaking remotely at a conference commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, Zelenskyy insisted that Russia “can be pushed to stop this war,” but warned that without a broader political shift, the cycle of aggression would persist .
He also urged Western governments to move beyond freezing Russian assets, calling instead for their confiscation and redeployment in support of Ukraine’s defense. “Every frozen Russian asset, including stolen wealth, must serve peace, not war,” Zelenskyy said, characterizing the measure as a moral and strategic imperative to undermine Russian aggression .
Zelenskyy’s message reflects growing frustration with international inaction, as Moscow continues lethal drone and missile campaigns across Ukraine, including a recent attack on Kyiv that killed several civilians . He framed the regime change demand not as ideological overreach, but as essential to preventing future transgressions and ensuring regional security.
Ukraine’s push for a tougher global stance aligns with calls for expanded sanctions, stronger military support, and coordinated pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy’s words mark a significant escalation in his diplomacy, turning attention from battlefield resilience to long-term political strategy aimed at dismantling Putin’s hold on power and averting further regional destabilization.
