Zelenskyy: Collaboration with Trump Would Be a Challenge

Zelenskyy discusses challenges of working with Trump, if re-elected, and emphasizes ongoing cooperation with the U.S., at BBC interview.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated in an interview with the BBC that collaborating with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, should he be re-elected, would pose “a challenge.” Zelenskyy acknowledged the complexities of the situation, emphasizing the necessity of cooperation with the United States regardless of the political landscape.

In an exclusive interview in London, Zelenskyy expressed his commitment to work with whichever individual assumes the presidency in the U.S. He also referenced comments made by Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, who Trump recently announced as his vice presidential candidate, stating, “I don’t care what happens in Ukraine.” These remarks have raised concerns about the future of U.S. policy towards Ukraine.

When asked about Vance’s comments, Zelenskyy replied, “Maybe he doesn’t really understand what’s going on in Ukraine. We have to work with the United States.”

Zelenskyy was in the UK to attend the European Political Community (EPC) meeting, which includes representatives from 27 EU member states and 20 non-member states, serving as an informal platform for collaboration. During his visit, he met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who announced £3 billion in aid and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to support Ukraine.

Zelenskyy expressed optimism regarding the Starmer administration, stating, “We don’t think Britain’s position will change. But I hope that Prime Minister Starmer’s term will be a special period in terms of international politics, world security, and the war in Ukraine.”

Additionally, Zelenskyy is set to become the first leader to address the British cabinet since U.S. President Bill Clinton in 1997. He will brief British ministers on the situation in Ukraine and is expected to sign a £3.5 billion defense export deal.

In his interview, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of increasing global pressure on Russia to engage in negotiations to resolve the conflict. Despite his presidential term officially ending, Zelenskyy continues to serve as Ukraine’s leader, as elections are currently suspended due to martial law in the country, which has been in place since 2019.