Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Thursday of attempting to drive a wedge between Europe and the United States, citing recent outreach efforts by the Kremlin toward former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“Vladimir Putin wants to divide Europe and the United States,” Zelensky said during a press conference in Paris, following a summit of Ukraine’s allied nations.
Zelensky’s remarks come more than three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, amid growing diplomatic maneuvering and intensified international discussions on security guarantees and sanctions.
The Ukrainian leader also addressed ongoing negotiations with Washington over a proposed critical minerals agreement, noting that the U.S. has been “constantly changing” the terms of the deal.
“I don’t want Washington to think that Kyiv is against the agreement,” he added, clarifying Ukraine’s position.
Zelensky further expressed his view that the U.S. stance toward Russia should be firmer, reflecting growing frustration over perceived diplomatic hesitations.
In his statements, Zelensky issued a clear warning to Western allies against easing sanctions on Moscow, particularly in the context of ongoing talks over a potential ceasefire in the Black Sea region — a move he believes Russia is pushing for in exchange for sanctions relief.
“We’ve heard messages, including from Saudi Arabia, about the possible lifting of sanctions… These are very dangerous messages,” Zelensky stressed.
Source: ANA-MPA / Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
