In a recent panel discussion in Paris, President Zelensky expressed his apprehension regarding Russian conditions that could affect potential ceasefire agreements.
Zelensky Calls on US to Maintain Firm Stand Against Russian Pressure
Zelensky Calls on US to Maintain Firm Stand Against Russian Pressure
Ukrainian President emphasizes the need for US resolve as Russian sanctions loom over ceasefire negotiations.
In the latest development surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the United States to "stay strong" amidst increasing Russian demands linked to sanctions. The Kremlin has introduced certain conditions for a ceasefire in the Black Sea, notably the lifting of Western sanctions on Russia as a prerequisite for guaranteeing safe passage for commercial vessels. This maritime truce was initially announced following three days of talks involving American officials in Saudi Arabia.
During his interaction with European journalists, Zelensky acknowledged the historical bipartisan support from the U.S. but voiced concerns over some narratives that appear to favor Russian viewpoints. He stated, “I hope [the U.S.] will stay strong against these pressures.”
After negotiations appeared to yield a ceasefire agreement, the Kremlin quickly countered by listing demands including the removal of sanctions on financial institutions tied to agricultural trade, as well as restoring access to the Swift payment system, essential for secure financial transactions. The U.S. government confirmed they are "looking at" Moscow's demands; however, the European Union has firmly stated it will not consider sanction removals until Russia fully withdraws from Ukraine.
When pressed on the nature of U.S. President Donald Trump’s relationship with both him and President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky declined to make any judgments, indicating uncertainty regarding Trump’s communications with the two leaders.
Zelensky also addressed comments from Trump envoy Steve Witkoff, who dismissed collective European efforts to support Ukraine. He suggested that Witkoff's background in real estate should not diminish the importance of diplomatic and military strategies needed in the current crisis.
In this ongoing war, Zelensky remains steadfastly committed to resisting Russian narratives and achieving a unified front among Western allies.
During his interaction with European journalists, Zelensky acknowledged the historical bipartisan support from the U.S. but voiced concerns over some narratives that appear to favor Russian viewpoints. He stated, “I hope [the U.S.] will stay strong against these pressures.”
After negotiations appeared to yield a ceasefire agreement, the Kremlin quickly countered by listing demands including the removal of sanctions on financial institutions tied to agricultural trade, as well as restoring access to the Swift payment system, essential for secure financial transactions. The U.S. government confirmed they are "looking at" Moscow's demands; however, the European Union has firmly stated it will not consider sanction removals until Russia fully withdraws from Ukraine.
When pressed on the nature of U.S. President Donald Trump’s relationship with both him and President Vladimir Putin, Zelensky declined to make any judgments, indicating uncertainty regarding Trump’s communications with the two leaders.
Zelensky also addressed comments from Trump envoy Steve Witkoff, who dismissed collective European efforts to support Ukraine. He suggested that Witkoff's background in real estate should not diminish the importance of diplomatic and military strategies needed in the current crisis.
In this ongoing war, Zelensky remains steadfastly committed to resisting Russian narratives and achieving a unified front among Western allies.
