Vance’s refusal to help Ukraine plays into Russia’s hands – Zelenskyy

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized remarks by U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who said he was proud of the suspension of military aid to Kyiv, calling such views support for the aggressor. 

He made this statement in an interview with NewsMax. The head of state emphasized that Russia is a common enemy, and reducing support will only embolden Moscow.

The president stressed that if an official takes pride in the lack of aid to Ukraine, this effectively amounts to aiding the Russian side. Zelenskyy noted that without American support, Ukraine would find itself in a weaker position, as the Kremlin respects nothing but force. At the same time, he expressed hope that the U.S. would not halt the supply of scarce systems, particularly under the PURL program.

Despite differences with the vice president, Zelenskyy called the United States an excellent partner and emphasized the mutual benefit of this relationship. In his view, strengthening Ukraine also strengthens the U.S. itself, which is a classic example of a win-win strategy. Dialogue between Kyiv and Washington remains critically important for the stability of the entire European region.

Prior to this, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance made a high-profile statement regarding a shift in Washington’s foreign policy course. “One of the things I’m most proud of as a member of the administration is that we told Europe: if you want to buy weapons, go ahead, but the United States is no longer buying or sending weapons to Ukraine. We’ve stepped away from that process,” JD Vance stated.

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance has become the leading conservative contender for the upcoming presidential election.