What were the main points of Zelensky’s post-summit press conference?
Volodymyr Zelensky had a lot to say at today’s press conference following the Ukraine summit in Paris — striking a careful balance between gratitude, frustration, and strategic messaging.
Here are the key takeaways:
Macron, Starmer and the West speeding up the path to peace
“We had a very good bilateral meeting, and it was very important for us, for Ukrainians, for me personally,” Zelenskyy said, praising talks with Emmanuel Macron and Sir Keir Starmer.
He called the UK, US, and France “accelerators” of the peace process and hailed Europe’s united stance on sanctions: “I’m very pleased with a united European agreement not to lift sanctions on Russia.”
A plea for strength from Washington
When asked about the US, Zelensky didn’t hold back, saying: “We want America to be stronger. We need that.”
He warned Russia is “dividing” Europe and America and said US decisions “can impact in real terms the end of the war.”
Ukraine frustrated by shifting minerals deal
Zelensky confirmed he won’t return to Washington soon, saying: “I’m not going to go to Washington because there’s no issue on the agenda.”
On the long-delayed minerals deal, he said the US is “constantly” changing the terms but made clear he values the partnership.
“We are in favour of the cooperation with the United States of America,” he said.
Security guarantees are growing
On the British-French reassurance force, Zelenskyy said: “There are a number of countries who are prepared – either through the air or with boots on the ground – to provide security guarantees to Ukraine.”
Talks will continue in a “more material fashion,” he added.
Macron and Starmer now represent Europe
In a notable moment, the Ukrainian leader said: “We have agreed that Europe will be represented by France and Britain – Starmer and Macron. This is a clear position and we would like to send this signal.”
US envoy ‘lives in a different reality’
When asked about trust in America, Zelensky vented frustration over missile support.
“Compared to the country at war, the entire world lives at a very slow pace,” he said.
Referring to the US envoy Steve Witkoff, he added: “This is from another world. For us, these people are from another planet.”
A jab at US inaction on Russia’s ceasefire rejection — then a quick retreat
Zelensky initially criticised Washington for not hitting Russia with new sanctions after it rejected a proposed ceasefire: “In my opinion, I believe that after that, [US] sanctions should have been introduced.”
But he quickly softened the tone: “Okay, let’s just make a pause and not just go on and advise America what to do. They have their own people who can advise.”
