In a recent interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his concerns regarding the summit between former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held in Alaska. Zelenskyy stated that this meeting ultimately catered to Putin's desires and lamented that Ukraine was not included in the discussions. He emphasized, "It's a pity that Ukraine was not there, because I think that President Trump gave Putin what he wanted." According to Zelenskyy, Putin was eager to meet with the President of the United States, and he believes that Trump facilitated this opportunity.
Zelenskyy's comments came just days before a significant escalation in attacks by Russia, where over 800 drones and various munitions targeted Ukraine, including the capital city, Kyiv. The assault resulted in the tragic loss of at least eight civilian lives and left 59 others injured. The Ukrainian Air Force labeled this attack as a record assault, highlighting the severity of the ongoing conflict.
As the war in Ukraine continues, Trump has been advocating for a dialogue between Putin and Zelenskyy, though these efforts have yet to yield results. In a recent interview with ABC News Chief Global Affairs Correspondent Martha Raddatz, Zelenskyy stressed the need for increased pressure from American and European allies on Russia to help bring an end to the conflict. He pointed out the necessity for more sanctions and support from President Trump, expressing his belief that additional pressure on Putin is critical for a resolution.
Zelenskyy articulated his concerns regarding Europe’s continued dependency on Russian energy sources, stating, "Some of them continue to buy oil and Russian gas. And this is not fair." He urged for an immediate cessation of energy purchases from Russia, describing energy as a weapon used by Putin. "You need to take off his weapon," Zelenskyy added, highlighting the importance of cutting off funding to the Russian military.
When discussing a potential meeting with Putin, Zelenskyy revealed that the Russian president had proposed terms that were unacceptable to him. He criticized Putin for attempting to manipulate the situation, saying, "He can come to Kyiv. I can't go to Moscow under -- when my country is under missiles, under attacks each day." Zelenskyy reiterated that it is unreasonable for him to travel to Moscow while his country faces daily threats.
As the conversation shifted to the vital issue of security guarantees for Ukraine, Zelenskyy emphasized that any such assurances must be based on the strength of the Ukrainian army. He expressed hope that President Trump truly desires to end the war, but he also underscored the necessity of achieving a sustainable peace to prevent future aggression.
In response to Raddatz's inquiry about what victory looks like for Ukraine, Zelenskyy articulated a clear vision: "The survival of Ukraine." He stated that Putin's aim is total occupation of Ukraine, and until that goal is achieved, the victory remains with Ukraine. "For us to survive is a victory," he declared, affirming Ukraine's commitment to its identity, independence, and sovereignty in the face of adversity.
