Zelensky Seeks Direct Collaboration with Trump Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his desire to work closely with former President Donald Trump. In an interview with Sky News, Zelensky stated, “Of course, we will work with Trump. I want to work with him directly.” He emphasized the need to maintain open communication without interference from Trump’s circle.

The United States has been a major provider of military aid to Ukraine, contributing $64.1 billion since Russia’s large-scale invasion began in February 2022. Zelensky knows that maintaining a good relationship with Trump is vital for securing future support.

Zelensky described his discussions with Trump during a September visit to New York as “warm, good, and constructive.” He noted that these initial talks were just the beginning and highlighted the necessity for more detailed conversations to create a strong plan for Ukraine.

Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, will soon travel to the U.S. to meet with Trump’s nominee for special envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg. Kellogg supports a ceasefire and peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv, focusing on security guarantees for Ukraine.

Despite this, Zelensky asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not willing to negotiate and does not wish to end the war. Zelensky hopes for Trump’s success and believes the U.S. plays a crucial role in ending the conflict.

During his campaign, Trump claimed the war would not have started if he were president. He has also promised to end the war, suggesting he could resolve it quickly, although details were lacking.

Zelensky made his statements as the conflict’s intensity increases, with Russia employing more non-nuclear ballistic missiles against Ukraine. Over a million Ukrainian homes lost electricity after widespread attacks on critical energy infrastructure.

Putin recently threatened to escalate attacks on Ukraine and praised Trump as a “smart and experienced” politician capable of finding solutions. In his interview, Zelensky highlighted the need for better equipment for Ukrainian soldiers and more combat aircraft to defend the rapidly advancing eastern front.

He also mentioned calls from U.S. officials to lower Ukraine’s minimum recruitment age from 25 to 18 to address personnel shortages. Zelensky urged partners to fulfill their roles in supporting Ukraine.

When asked about potentially ceding territory to Russia for NATO membership, Zelensky said that while this could theoretically end the war, it would violate Ukraine’s constitution. He insisted that any NATO invitation must be based on Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders.

Zelensky has long sought Ukraine’s unconditional NATO membership but acknowledged that it is unlikely before the war ends. He reiterated that NATO membership is currently the only path to victory.

He expressed concern about losing the war and Ukraine’s independence, stating, “If we are left alone, we will lose.”