An Interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
In March 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy granted an interview to the Italian publication Corriere della Sera. He discussed the fallout from the Middle East crisis, negotiations with Russia, the frontline situation, European security, and domestic politics. This interview comes at a time of heightened global tension, where regional conflicts are increasingly interconnected. In the context of events in the spring of 2026, it is important to note that American and Israeli forces struck military targets in Iran, a key supplier of weapons such as drones and missiles to Russia.
The Purl Program and Negotiations with Russia
Zelenskyy underscored the significance of the Purl program, which is used to purchase American weaponry with European funds. He remarked:
“We are using the Purl program to buy American weapons with European money. Perhaps the Americans themselves will need it.”This initiative could prove a vital tool for bolstering security as the conflict intensifies.
Talks with Russia remain fraught with difficulty. The next round of trilateral negotiations involving the United States is scheduled for March 5–6 in Geneva. However, Russia has laid out stringent conditions, including a demand for the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the entire Donbas region and the creation of demilitarized zones exclusively on the Ukrainian side of the front. In response to these demands, Zelenskyy stated:
“I will never abandon Donbas and the 200,000 Ukrainians who live there.”
Regarding the situation on the battlefield, since the start of 2026, Ukrainian forces have managed to regain control over 460 square kilometers of territory. Meanwhile, Russia is suffering significant losses, up to 35,000 troops per month, and is planning to mobilize an additional 400,000 personnel. This dynamic on the front lines is a critical factor for European security and regional stability.
Ukraine's domestic politics also remain in focus. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni play significant roles in shaping relations with neighboring countries, especially given the current security challenges. The situation in Ukraine, influenced by both external and internal factors, requires careful monitoring and diplomatic efforts to ensure regional stability.
Amid escalating military conflict and complex negotiations with Russia, Ukraine continues to seek ways to strengthen its defense capabilities and secure support from international partners. The Purl program may become a key element in providing the necessary military aid, particularly against the backdrop of intensified hostilities. The role of international diplomacy is also crucial, as it can influence the further development of the frontline situation and stability in the region.