Zelenskyy says US support is critical for Ukraine, distrusts Russian intentions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the indispensable role of American support for Ukraine’s war effort in an interview aired Monday on Fox News. “Can we win without American support? No,” Zelenskyy stated, highlighting that US-supplied air defense missiles are crucial for protecting Ukrainian skies.

Meeting with Trump and Russian Posture

Zelenskyy’s remarks followed his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Florida, where the two discussed the ongoing conflict. After the talks, Trump told reporters that he had spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin about Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction, claiming Moscow would assist by providing “energy, electricity and other things at very low prices.” Trump added, “Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed.”

Zelenskyy’s Distrust of Moscow

Zelenskyy strongly rejected the suggestion of Russian goodwill. “I don't trust Russians… I don't trust Putin, and he doesn't want success for Ukraine,” he said. While acknowledging Putin might make such statements to Trump, Zelenskyy insisted, “It's not true… It's not about energy. We don't need anything from them.” On post-war rebuilding, he asserted that Russia must provide financial reparations: “They have to give us money… and we will rebuild everything we need to rebuild.”