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Zelensky says he feels betrayed over Trump's stance

Zelensky says he feels betrayed over Trump's stance
Photo: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky / Facebook

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said he feels a sense of betrayal due to the change in the United States' position regarding the war with Russia. According to him, Ukraine is gradually losing one of its most influential partners, but does not intend to give up national interests for the sake of a peace agreement.

Zelensky said this on October 14 in an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan on the program Piers Morgan Uncensored.

During the conversation, the journalist asked the Ukrainian president whether he believes Ukraine is losing support from the United States.

"Yes, but not through our fault. We cannot afford to be weak," — Zelensky replied.

Morgan also asked whether the Ukrainian leader feels betrayed after the recent decisions of US President Donald Trump, including the easing of restrictions on Russian diesel fuel supplies.

"Actually, yes. But it is a bit more complicated than just my emotions or feelings. It is a pity that we are losing such a strong partner," — Zelensky said.

The President of Ukraine emphasized that Kyiv does not object to Washington's mediating role in negotiations with Moscow. However, in his opinion, the American administration should maintain a neutral position between the parties if it claims the role of mediator.

"It hurts when President Trump chooses one side, and it is not our side," — Zelensky said.

He added that he understands the American president's desire to act as a mediator between Ukraine and Russia, but considers it important to consistently adhere to such a position.

Separately, Zelensky rejected the possibility of an agreement that would require Ukraine to abandon its own national interests.

"We are not selling our country. This is not business for us. This is simply our life, and this is our country," — the president emphasized.

The statements came against the backdrop of a new escalation in relations between Kyiv and Washington. On October 9, Trump announced an agreement with Russia regarding diesel fuel supplies, and subsequently demanded that Ukraine stop strikes on Russian oil refineries.

The American president also publicly questioned Zelensky's readiness to conclude a peace agreement, stating that Russian leader Vladimir Putin is allegedly more interested in ending the war.

At the same time, on October 13, Trump denied reports about the cessation of transferring American intelligence data to Ukraine. He assured that the United States continues to help Kyiv and exchange intelligence information.

Thus, Zelensky's words about losing a strong partner reflect his assessment of the deterioration of relations with the Trump administration, rather than an official confirmation of a complete cessation of American support for Ukraine.

Based on materials from: Piers Morgan Uncensored, The Kyiv Independent, Kurs Ukrainy.