Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed grave concerns about Ukraine's survival without U.S. support during discussions this week with U.S. and Russian leaders. Zelenskiy acknowledged the challenges, stating, "Probably it will be very, very, very difficult...but we will have a low chance to survive without the support of the United States." The interview excerpt, scheduled for broadcast on Sunday, highlighted Zelenskiy's perspective.
In recent separate calls with Russian President Putin and Zelenskiy, U.S. President Trump touched on the conflict, signaling an initial diplomatic move to resolve the ongoing crisis. Trump voiced skepticism about Kyiv joining NATO and the prospects of Ukraine regaining full control of its territories post the 2014 Crimea annexation.
Ukraine insists on the return of its territories and seeks NATO membership or equivalent security assurances against future Russian aggression. Zelenskiy noted in the interview that Putin's interest in negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire to ease global sanctions on Russia and enhance Moscow's military capabilities.
Trump described his call with Putin as positive and lengthy, with conflicting reports on its duration. Zelenskiy's office indicated an hour-long conversation between Trump and Zelenskiy. The interactions were perceived positively by Trump, who noted that the call "went very well."