Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sought to clarify his relationship with US President Donald Trump, stating that there is no personal animosity between them despite recent diplomatic tensions. In a recent interview with CNN from Kyiv, Zelensky expressed concerns over Trump's decision to ease sanctions on Russia, warning that such actions could embolden Vladimir Putin and exacerbate the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Zelensky's comments come in the wake of Trump announcing a deal for the purchase of Russian fuel and the lifting of certain sanctions against Moscow. This shift in US policy has raised alarms in Kyiv, where officials fear that relaxing pressure on Russia could undermine Ukraine's efforts to defend its sovereignty. "My attitude to Putin is very clear. I think that if we lift sanctions, we will make him stronger," Zelensky stated, emphasizing his opposition to any measures that could benefit the Russian leader.

The Ukrainian leader's remarks follow a significant meeting in St. Petersburg between US special envoy Steve Witkoff and President Putin, during which Witkoff commended Putin for releasing Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old American detainee. Trump has defended the decision to waive sanctions as a necessary step to facilitate Hubbard's release and maintain fragile peace negotiations. However, Zelensky expressed skepticism about Moscow's intentions, asserting that Putin is manipulating the situation to his advantage. "Putin is playing, you know, he is a player. It's a pity because he plays with the lives of other people, and of course he doesn't want to stop the war," he remarked.

In discussing potential peace terms, Zelensky indicated a willingness to consider freezing current frontlines to halt the violence but firmly rejected any notion of conceding Ukrainian territory or recognizing Russian occupation. "Our land is very important because it's about people. It's not about kilometers," he stressed. He underscored the sacrifices made by Ukrainians in defense of their homeland, stating that no one would recognize the temporarily occupied territories as part of Russia.

Zelensky also highlighted the urgent need for military support from Ukraine's European allies, noting that while some air defense missiles have been supplied, the country is facing critical shortages. He called for enhanced missile systems and a continuation of sanctions against Russia to ensure Ukraine's defense capabilities remain robust amidst the ongoing conflict.