Putin Has No Intention of Ending the War, Zelensky Says—He’s Only Faking Readiness for Talks.

Statement from Ukraine's President

According to TSN.ua: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced serious concerns that Russia is not genuinely seeking to end its war against Ukraine, but is merely pretending to be open to negotiations. In his view, the current situation poses major threats, especially as the Kremlin strengthens its position. Zelensky emphasized that Putin never truly intended to halt the aggression against Ukraine and is instead using the opportunity to apply pressure.

Economic Fallout and Global Politics

Zelensky highlighted that Russia is expected to face a deficit exceeding $100 billion by 2026 as a result of Western sanctions. However, he noted that the situation involving Iran is actually generating more revenue for the Kremlin. According to the president, Russia earned roughly $10 billion in just two weeks during the conflict in the Middle East.

“The situation around Iran is bringing him more money. The easing of sanctions imposed on Russia is also helping him,” Zelensky stated.

The Ukrainian president also pointed out that U.S. President Donald Trump has temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian oil and petroleum products. In Zelensky's assessment, these actions are boosting the Kremlin’s confidence to continue its military operations.

“This is truly dangerous. It gives Putin more confidence that he can keep the war going,” he stressed.

Putin’s special envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, visited the United States to push for sanctions relief, which may further indicate the Kremlin’s intent to solidify its standing. Zelensky underlined that Putin only wants to issue ultimatums to Ukraine—such as demanding the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from certain territory. But, he argued, such demands will never satisfy the aggressor’s ambitions.

These developments underscore the complexity of the geopolitical landscape in the region and the critical need for continued international support for Ukraine as it resists Russian aggression. President Zelensky’s remarks reflect not only the current state of the conflict but also the potential risks that could arise from shifts in global policy, particularly regarding sanctions on Russia.