Zelensky calls for sincerity in partnership and criticises Putin's tactics

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke about the nature of his interaction with the head of the United States, Donald Trump. He emphasised that their dialogue contains no elements of political games.

Position on partnership with Washington

In his address, the Ukrainian leader highlighted the fundamental difference in approaches to international relations. According to him, it is better to have a partner who expresses gratitude when it is a genuine feeling, rather than a formality.

«Я не граю в ігри з Трампом. Краще мати таких партнерів, як я, — вдячних тоді, коли ми справді це відчуваємо, — ніж дякувати щосекунди й бути таким, як Путін: дуже вдячним, але щойно ви відвернетеся — ніж уже у вас у спині» (I do not play games with Trump. It is better to have partners like me — grateful when we truly feel it — than to thank every second and be like Putin: very grateful, but the moment you turn away — the knife is already in your back), Zelensky stated.

Comparison with the actions of the Russian leader

Commenting on his position, Volodymyr Zelensky drew an analogy with the behaviour of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. The President of Ukraine described Moscow's tactics as an external display of gratitude accompanied by treacherous actions against partners when they are not paying attention.

These remarks were made on 24 October 2026.