Kiev, Ukraine
In an exclusive interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin is “not ready to compromise” to resolve the ongoing war. However, he indicated that President Trump could play a significant role by intensifying sanctions that might lead to a potential “social explosion” in Russia.
“He needs to feel this,” Zelensky emphasized.
He expressed gratitude for Trump’s support regarding sanctions, particularly highlighting Trump’s announcement that if Moscow declines a peace agreement, the U.S. would impose 100% tariffs on nations purchasing Russian oil.
But Zelensky noted that the 50-day ultimatum would only result in increased death and destruction during that timeframe.
“For us, every day is scary,” he admitted.
He believes the key to reducing the bloodshed, which has persisted for over three years, lies in pressuring Putin to end the conflict.
“Putin doesn’t want a conclusion… so he’s not ready to compromise,” Zelensky stated.
“If Ukraine has to do this on its own, we face a long and arduous journey filled with many losses to convince him of the necessity to end this conflict,” he continued. “It’s not just about words; there needs to be serious leverage.”
Zelensky noted that the war tactics employed by Russia have become increasingly brutal, such as the use of explosive drones aimed at civilians, including children. He stated that Russian forces now enter Ukraine in alarming numbers.
Following attacks, Zelensky explained, Russians often launch secondary strikes targeting those who rush to assist victims.
“They strike private homes and infrastructure, fully aware that ambulances are on their way,” he remarked. “After an initial assault, they wait for rescuers to arrive before attacking again.”
He added that this strategy indicates a calculated effort, as they seem to “hunt” those trying to help victims.
According to Zelensky, the delay tactics employed by Russian officials allow for more manipulation. He expressed concern that Putin has simply been wasting Trump’s time.
“President Putin wasted President Trump’s time,” he said, indicating a desire for the U.S. government to exert more pressure through sanctions.
Trump has shared his frustrations about what he perceives as Putin’s deceit in negotiations while Ukraine suffers.
“A lot of people are dying, and it should be over,” Trump stated on July 8.
Zelensky remarked that while Trump might have initially believed that Russians were eager to resolve the war due to the human cost, he thinks Trump’s views have shifted upon realizing that many Russians seem indifferent to the loss of life.
“Trump takes the toll on human life more seriously than Putin. It hurts him more,” Zelensky articulated.
He described the sanctions as a humanitarian way to facilitate an end to the conflict. The efficacy of these measures lies in their impact on the everyday lives of Russians, potentially leading to a decline in Putin’s domestic support and prompting public dissent.
Zelensky noted that many Russians, including some Ukrainian prisoners he spoke with, are opposed to the war but feel too restricted to voice their opinions.
He believes societal sentiment can shift if people feel the economic repercussions of the conflict.
“They fear repercussions, be it financial loss or imprisonment,” he said. “Yet, a social backlash often follows layoffs due to economic strain.”
Zelensky is optimistic that this approach could persuade Trump to aid in ending the war, as he believes Putin’s obsession with power may diminish if faced with increased domestic unrest.
“We certainly want to expedite this process,” he concluded. “Our goal is to provide more information to Trump and engage in discussions for robust sanctions against Russia.”
