Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope that the United States will “stand strong” against Russia’s demands to lift sanctions as a condition for a ceasefire in the Black Sea. The comments were made during a panel interview with European journalists in Paris.
Moscow’s recent announcement of a maritime truce, intended to allow safe passage for commercial vessels, came with a caveat: Russia insisted that Western sanctions on its food and fertilizer exports be lifted before the ceasefire could take effect. These sanctions have been a key point of contention, with Russia pushing for the removal of financial restrictions and the reinstatement of access to the SWIFT international payment system for financial institutions involved in agriculture.
Zelensky, when asked about the pressure the US might face from Moscow, responded cautiously, “I hope so. God bless, they will. But we’ll see.” His remarks reflect the delicate diplomatic balancing act the US faces as it navigates competing pressures in the ongoing conflict.
The White House confirmed on Tuesday that both Russian and Ukrainian delegations had agreed to a ceasefire following talks with US officials in Saudi Arabia. However, the Kremlin quickly added its list of conditions, which included the lifting of sanctions on Russian financial entities linked to the agricultural sector. These demands have added a layer of complexity to the situation.
While the US has indicated it is “looking at” Moscow’s request, European leaders have been firm in their stance. The European Union has made it clear that it will not consider lifting sanctions unless Russia unconditionally withdraws from Ukraine’s internationally recognized territory.
Zelensky expressed deep gratitude for the bipartisan support Ukraine has received from the US but voiced concerns that some individuals may be swayed by Russian narratives. “We can’t agree to those narratives,” he emphasized. He also addressed the relationship between former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying he was uncertain about the nature of their interactions and whether Trump had a closer relationship with Putin than with him.
In a response to a comment by Trump envoy Steve Witkoff, who had dismissed Europe’s efforts to build a “coalition of the willing” in support of Ukraine, Zelensky downplayed Witkoff’s critique, stating that his expertise in real estate was not particularly relevant to international diplomacy.
Zelensky further noted that Europe had grown stronger during the course of the war, both in its unity and in its support for Ukraine. He acknowledged that the war had prompted European nations to rethink their defense and security strategies, especially as they face the prospect of less US involvement in the future.
When asked about his legacy, Zelensky said he wasn’t concerned with how history would remember him. “It’s not my purpose or goal,” he explained. “My goal is to defend Ukraine and ensure my children can walk the streets without fear.” His dedication to his nation’s defense remained clear as he vowed to continue fighting for Ukraine’s sovereignty for as long as necessary.
On the question of NATO membership, Zelensky asserted that Ukraine, with its “battle-hardened” military, would make the alliance stronger. However, he acknowledged that the Trump administration had previously ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine, complicating the country’s future ambitions.
Zelensky’s visit to Paris, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron, is part of his ongoing effort to rally European allies and underscore the urgency of confronting Russian aggression. Macron, speaking after the meeting, reiterated that Moscow could not dictate the terms for peace. He also announced a new €2 billion military aid package for Ukraine, reinforcing Europe’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense.
As European leaders prepare for a summit on the war in Ukraine, Zelensky’s main challenge is to secure not just political rhetoric but tangible financial and military commitments to ensure Ukraine’s continued resilience.