Zelenskyy on Germany's Role: Key Ally for Ukraine and Stakes for Upcoming Talks

Interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

According to ХВИЛЯ: In an interview with the German broadcaster ZDF on April 14, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted Germany's position as Ukraine's primary strategic partner. The interview followed Ukrainian-German intergovernmental consultations in Berlin, the first such high-level talks in over twenty years. Zelenskyy discussed critical issues including financial aid, weapons supplies, and potential negotiations involving Russia and the United States.

The consultations covered a proposed $90 billion loan for Ukraine. Zelenskyy warned that a prolonged war would lead to a reduction in weapons deliveries, a critical concern for Ukraine's air defense capabilities. He stated,

"To be honest, Germany is doing more than all the others. The Americans are not funding our fight,"

said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The Ukrainian president noted the regional situation is growing more complex, revealing that Russia had asked the U.S. to halt aid to Ukraine. Zelenskyy remarked,

"The Russians absolutely approached the Americans with a request: do not help Ukraine, and then we will not help the Iranians,"

said Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He also expressed concern that the United States does not see Europe at the negotiating table, adding, "I do not see a signal from the U.S. that they want this. They say: Europe is weak now."

Zelenskyy argued that perceptions of the war's progress are mistaken: "The only problem is that they think the Russians are winning this war. But they are wrong." He also emphasized a stark Russian position, stating

"Putin said-Putin said-to American intermediaries that he would end this war if Ukraine gives up territories. He will not accept any other conditions,"

said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Guarantees and Reforms

Zelenskyy stressed that U.S. security guarantees would only be possible after the war ends, which he said would require Ukraine to leave Donbas. In this context, he suggested,

"Putin does not need to strain himself if he can use a single European country to destroy Europe's unity,"

said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

During the interview, Zelenskyy also mentioned the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and a potential Ukrainian role in helping to resolve it, but noted that "America has not asked us yet." On weapons supplies, the president observed that "the longer the war lasts, the more territory is destroyed, the more he will have to pay."

Concluding the interview, Zelenskyy underscored the importance of Ukrainian reforms for EU accession, asserting,

"Ukraine is implementing reforms faster than any other country in Europe that currently wants to become an EU member. And this is a fact recognized by the European Union."

Against the backdrop of a protracted war, Zelenskyy's comments underscore the vital and evolving nature of international support. His praise for Germany contrasts with pointed concerns about the commitment of other allies, reflecting the high-stakes diplomacy surrounding Ukraine's future. The emphasis on rapid reform highlights Ukraine's dual focus on both immediate defense and long-term integration into European structures.

As the situation evolves, Zelenskyy has also raised concerns about the stalled €90 billion aid package during the recent EU summit, emphasizing the need for urgent support as the U.S. signals a willingness to engage in negotiations with Russia. This context underscores the critical nature of Germany's role in Ukraine's defense strategy amidst shifting international dynamics.