Zelensky Reveals Why Putin Is Simulating Negotiations With Ukraine
- 12.06.2025, 8:07
The Kremlin has two goals.
President Vladimir Zelensky said that Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin is only negotiating with Ukraine because of the threat of new sanctions. In addition, it is important for him to isolate Kiev.
This is reported by Bild.
According to Zelensky, it is important for Russia to show U.S. President Donald Trump that "there is a diplomatic bridge between Ukraine and Russia." When asked why, the Ukrainian president responded as follows:
"So that sanctions are not imposed against Russia (while negotiations are underway. Because Putin can always say - ed). "We are talking to each other! If sanctions are imposed, there will be no more negotiations," the Ukrainian head of state explained.
He also added that the Russians pursued the second goal. The Russian Federation wanted "dialog without Europeans and without Americans" to isolate Ukraine.
"A long war without the support of partners (Ukraine - ed.) would be ideal for Putin. He will not withstand a long war with partners and sanctions," the president said.
Zelensky noted that Trump sees that the Russian side "is not quite open and honest about the war." According to the Ukrainian leader, Russia is "just lying to Trump."
He also said that he accepts the fact that the U.S. president repeatedly criticizes not only Putin, but also himself. Zelensky explained that he would take it normally if it would bring Ukraine closer to ending the war. At the same time, he reiterated his belief.
"In my opinion, Putin understands nothing but force. And America has that power. And I really hope that America sees and understands this," the president explained.
The Ukrainian leader additionally spoke out about the sanctions. He believes that the main mistake of the restrictions is that they were implemented too slowly. This, in turn, gave Putin a chance to adapt. In particular, it is about the economy and especially the military industry.
"Putin feels that his economy is now suffering. But he wants to buy more time before tough sanctions are imposed because he can hold out for a while longer," Zelensky said, noting that sanctions should be implemented now.
In addition, the Ukrainian president emphasized that the more support for Ukraine, the fewer Ukrainians will die.
"People are not firewood that we throw into the fire. We do not treat our own people the way Russians do," the Ukrainian head of state added.