Pride Over Cutting Aid Plays Into Russia’s Hands, Zelenskyy Tells Vance

Remarks by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

In an interview with Newsmax, recorded at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took aim at U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance. Zelenskyy argued that Vance’s expressed pride in halting military assistance to Ukraine ultimately strengthens Russia’s position, not America’s. He stressed that Russia will always remain an adversary of the United States, never a partner.

Zelenskyy also highlighted a recent shift in Washington’s focus toward the Middle East, which he said has weakened the sanctions pressure on Moscow.

“I fear that if we only have talks, Russia won’t feel the most critical thing America can provide—pressure on them. The U.S. could ramp up pressure with new sanctions, but right now those have been eased because of the Middle East. And we feel that,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine will continue striking Russian oil refineries, stating, “If Russia attacks us, we will respond regardless.” He also emphasized that Ukraine has previously assisted the U.S. in the Middle East, including support for American bases.

“First of all, we sent specialists to several countries that asked us. And not just the Middle East—some institutions in the U.S. also requested our support,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Ukraine’s Position on the Battlefield

Concluding his remarks, Zelenskyy asserted that Russia is not winning the war and that Ukraine currently holds its strongest battlefield position in the last nine to ten months. “The Russians are not in a strong position. They are not winning,” the president stated.

Zelenskyy’s comments underscore the critical need for continued international support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. The redirection of U.S. attention to other regions could threaten stability in Ukraine, prompting the Ukrainian leader to call for renewed sanctions pressure on Moscow. Given the current situation on the front lines, Kyiv’s stance remains pragmatic, focusing on sustained resistance and the preservation of the international coalition. These remarks may also signal potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy toward Ukraine as regional dynamics continue to evolve.

As tensions escalate, it is crucial to understand the broader implications of Russia's strategic ambitions in Ukraine. In a related context, President Zelenskyy has previously warned about the Kremlin’s focus on key cities like Kharkiv and Dnipro, highlighting their significance in the ongoing conflict. For a deeper insight into these critical developments, read more about Russia's objectives in the region.