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Volodymyr Zelensky takes aim at Donald Trump’s Russia diesel deal, warning that the move could benefit Vladimir Putin as Ukraine seeks continued US support. (Images: X)
London/Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticised US President Donald Trump over a decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel, arguing that the move benefits Moscow while undermining Ukraine’s position. In an interview with Piers Morgan on Piers Morgan Uncensored, Zelensky said he felt betrayed by the development and warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin could view the agreement as a victory.
“This is not the right side of history,” Zelensky said, urging Washington to reconsider its approach as Ukraine continues to face Russian attacks.
During the interview, Zelensky expressed concern that the US decision could weaken pressure on Russia. He said the agreement was a straightforward win for Putin and remarked that the Russian leader was “laughing” at the outcome. The Ukrainian president also stressed that his country needed continued support from strategic allies, particularly the United States. Despite his disappointment, he said Ukraine was counting on its partners to help it survive the ongoing war.
Zelensky described an energy ceasefire as a potentially positive step towards peace, but said Russia had continued striking Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. He expressed regret over what he sees as a weakening of the partnership with Washington. His comments came amid wider debate over prospects for ending the war, including Trump’s suggestions that Ukraine may need new leadership and his assertion that Putin is more interested in a peace agreement than Kyiv.
The Ukrainian leader’s remarks come at a time of uncertainty over the future of US assistance to Kyiv. Zelensky voiced concern that Washington could be stepping back from its role as a key strategic partner, even as Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russian military operations. His comments also reflect growing friction over the direction of US policy towards the conflict and the conditions under which a potential peace agreement could be reached.
Zelensky also criticised a reported move involving Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite communications network, which Ukraine relies on for military communications and drone operations. He described the reported restrictions as a mistake that could put lives at risk. Starlink has played an important role in helping Ukrainian forces maintain communications during the war, including operations involving long-range drones.
Zelensky’s remarks came as he visited British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street in London. Members of the Irish Guards formed an honour guard for his arrival, highlighting the significance of the visit amid the continuing conflict.
The meeting and interview unfolded against a backdrop of diplomatic uncertainty, with Kyiv seeking sustained Western backing while attempting to counter Russian attacks and keep the prospect of a negotiated settlement alive.
