Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly disagreed with former US President Donald Trump over India’s role in Russia’s war against Ukraine. Speaking to Fox News anchor Bret Baier, Zelenskyy said, “India is mostly with us,” acknowledging that while there are energy-related challenges, India’s stance is largely supportive of Ukraine. He stressed the importance of closer cooperation with Europe and India to encourage New Delhi to move away from Russian energy dependence.
Zelenskyy highlighted that stronger ties with India could help influence its energy policies: “We have to do everything not to withdraw India, and they'll change their attitude to the Russian energy sector.” He contrasted India’s position with Iran, stating that Tehran would “never be on our side” due to its alignment with the US’s adversaries. Zelenskyy also expressed optimism about ending the war, noting that his recent discussion with Trump was constructive, with both leaders sharing the goal of supporting Ukraine to the end.
The remarks come in the backdrop of Trump’s UN General Assembly address, where he criticized India and China as key funders of Russia’s war effort through their energy imports. Zelenskyy’s statement directly challenged this narrative, clarifying that India’s engagement is not equivalent to financing Moscow’s campaign.
India, for its part, maintains that its oil trade with Russia is lawful and part of its national economic interests, pointing out that Western nations continue to purchase Russian goods worth billions. Zelenskyy, however, emphasized that collaboration with Europe and dialogue with India remain crucial to reducing reliance on Russian energy and contributing to a resolution of the conflict.
In summary, while Trump blamed India for indirectly supporting Russia, Zelenskyy affirmed India’s general alignment with Ukraine and highlighted diplomatic efforts to leverage India’s position in ending the war.
