Zelensky wants West to prioritize Ukraine over their needs

(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Western nations to place Ukraine’s interests above their own, criticizing the EU and the US for delays in implementing new sanctions against Russia.

Since the escalation of the conflict in 2022, Moscow has faced multiple rounds of restrictions from Western allies, with the EU adopting 18 sanctions packages and currently debating additional measures. Meanwhile, Washington has approached further sanctions cautiously amid a perceived thaw in relations with Moscow following Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Trump has indicated, however, that sanctions could be reintroduced if the conflict continues.

In an interview aired on Tuesday, Zelensky described deliberations over potential consequences of new sanctions as a “dangerous” waste of time.

"I believe that all countries need to stop thinking about themselves and their future relations with Russia, but instead think more about Ukraine, because it’s today and now," he said. "This is very dangerous, and to be frank, dishonest."

Zelensky acknowledged that Trump’s calls for Europe to curb Russian energy imports and impose tariffs on buyers like China and India were understandable. However, he insisted that the US should not wait for Brussels, which he accused of “hiding behind bureaucracy.”

"President Trump, I think, believes that if he were to apply all strong sanctions, he would close diplomacy with Russians… But we can’t wait for all European countries to stop relations with Russia," Zelensky said. "All that’s lacking now is a strong sanctions package from the US."

The Ukrainian leader also stressed the importance of receiving a “clear position” from Trump on sanctions and firm security guarantees before any potential settlement.

Trump has called on European nations to halt imports of Russian oil and gas and suggested he would then consider imposing additional sanctions. He has also proposed steep tariffs on India and China, the leading buyers of Russian crude.

Reports indicate that the European Commission will delay its next sanctions package as member states weigh how to respond to these demands.

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