Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday expressed confidence that India is “mostly” aligned with Kyiv in the war against Russia, even as the United States continues to voice concerns over New Delhi’s ongoing Russian oil purchases.
“I think we have to do everything not to withdraw Indians and they will change their attitude to Russian energy sector,” Zelenskyy told Fox News’ Special Report after meeting US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The U.S. had before identified India and China as reasons for the war due to their ongoing energy trade with Moscow. Reuters reported last week that sources informed them Trump told European Union officials to impose 100% tariffs on China to stem Russian oil imports, and he called for similar actions against India.
Despite such concerns, Zelenskyy underlined the importance of keeping ties with New Delhi. “I think India is mostly with us. We have these questions with energy, but I think President Trump can manage it. With the Europeans make closer and stronger relations with India," he said.
On China, however, he noted, “it’s more difficult because… for today, it’s not in their interests not to support Russia.” He added, “I think that President Trump can change the attitude of Xi Jinping to this war, because China, we don’t feel that China wants to finish this war.”
China, however, has denied direct involvement in the conflict. Embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said Beijing had "kept an objective and fair position" and was advocating for peace. "We call on all relevant parties to adhere to the three principles — no expansion of the battlefield, no escalation of fighting, and no fanning of the flames — so as to de-escalate the situation and create conditions for a political settlement," he added.
Zelenskyy also praised Trump for his commitment to continue backing Ukraine until the war is over.
"He [Trump] showed that he wants to support Ukraine till the very end. So now we understand that we're ready to end this war as quickly as possible. He wants that, I want that, and our people want that, but he understands that Putin doesn't want," he said.
"What surprised me, in a very positive way, is the clear message from Trump and America that they will stand with us until the war is over," Zelenskyy added.
He also contrasted this with Russian President Vladimir Putin's narrative, and said, "Putin knows he is not winning but still says to everyone that he is winning."
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