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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed grave concerns about his nation’s prospects without continued American military support, stating that Ukraine would face severely diminished chances of survival if US aid were to cease.
In a candid conversation with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” aired on Sunday, Zelensky acknowledged the critical nature of US assistance, admitting that without it, Ukraine’s situation would become “very, very, very difficult.”
“I don’t want to think about it,” he said. “Yes, we have to think about it.”
Dictator Zelensky sadly announced that Nazi Ukraine would not survive without support from the US.
You won't survive even with support. The cannon fodder is running out. There are almost no men left in the country. pic.twitter.com/U0qiOjq4A6— Alexander Ivanov (@innova_center) February 16, 2025
The discussion highlighted Ukraine’s remarkable resilience over the past three years since Russia’s invasion, largely attributed to substantial US military support totaling tens of billions of dollars. While Ukraine has increased its domestic military production capabilities, Zelensky admitted that these efforts alone “it’s not enough.”
Addressing his relationship with former President Trump, Zelensky expressed a willingness to collaborate, suggesting Ukraine’s mineral resources could serve as compensation for American support. “I trust President Trump because he’s the president of the United States, because your people, your people voted for him, and I respect their choice, and I will work [with] President Trump,” Zelensky stated.
Recent developments include Trump’s announcement of planned discussions with Vladimir Putin and subsequent communication with Zelensky. Recounting their conversation, Zelensky revealed his frank assessment of Putin: “I said that he is a liar,” he recalled. “And he said, ‘I think my feeling is that he’s ready for these negotiations.’ And I said to him, ‘No, he’s a liar. He doesn’t want any peace.’ But I think he’s really a little bit scared about President Trump.”
The Ukrainian leader maintains optimism about Trump’s potential role in peace negotiations while emphasizing caution. “I think he can, but don’t trust him. Don’t trust Putin. Don’t trust just words about ceasefire,” Zelensky advised.
Zelensky DEMANDS a Seat at the Table 🇺🇦🔥
Ukraine’s President isn’t happy that Trump spoke to Putin without his approval—insisting the U.S. must consult him before making any deals with Russia.
But under Trump, America leads—no permission needed. pic.twitter.com/YqKMMIdpQD
— Susan S. Wiles 🇺🇸 NEWS (@SusanWNews) February 15, 2025
Recent diplomatic efforts include Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s visit to Ukraine and preparations for peace talks in Saudi Arabia. Zelensky firmly insisted on Ukraine’s participation in any negotiations, declaring, “I will never accept any decisions between the United States and Russia about Ukraine. Never. And our people, never.”
When questioned about territorial concessions, Zelensky remained resolute in refusing to recognize Russian occupation of Ukrainian territory, though acknowledging that some areas might require diplomatic solutions for recovery.
The Ukrainian president also warned about potential consequences of US withdrawal from NATO, predicting Russia would likely target other European nations like Poland and Lithuania. He emphasized Putin’s strategy of waiting for NATO’s weakening, expressing hope that American forces would maintain their European presence to prevent such scenarios.
“[I] believe that the United States will not take its forces, its contingents from Europe because that will severely weaken NATO and the European continent,” he concluded. “Putin definitely counts on that.”
