Putin gains new resource for war: Zelenskyy warns of danger

Zelenskyy said Putin never intended to halt the war and merely pretended to be open to negotiations.

The Ukrainian leader made the remarks while discussing the international situation and its impact on the war.

«Putin never wanted to stop Russia’s war against Ukraine. He feared President Donald Trump and pressure from the United States. That is why he played this game, pretending he wanted negotiations, ” Zelenskyy said.

According to the president, Moscow is using negotiations primarily to push ultimatums on Kyiv, including demands that Ukrainian troops withdraw from their own territory.

«He only wants to issue ultimatums to Ukraine, such as demanding that we withdraw our troops from our territory. But that will not satisfy his appetite, ” Zelenskyy said.

Russia’s revenues strengthen the Kremlin’s confidence

Zelenskyy also warned that global developments could strengthen Moscow’s position. In particular, Russia is benefiting financially from tensions in the Middle East, he said.

«The situation around Iran is bringing him more money. The easing of sanctions imposed on Russia is also helping him, ” the president said.

According to Ukrainian intelligence, Western sanctions and Ukrainian strikes on Russia’s energy infrastructure pushed Russia into a deficit of more than $100bn in 2026.

However, new geopolitical developments could partially offset these losses.

«Now we see that they have earned around $10bn in two weeks of war in the Middle East. This is truly dangerous. It gives Putin more confidence that he can continue the war, ” Zelenskyy said.

Zelenskyy added that the United States and its allies must step up pressure on the Kremlin, warning that otherwise Russia will not negotiate in good faith.