Highlights:
- Zelenskyy says India is “mostly with Ukraine,” countering Trump’s UNGA claim.
- Calls for stronger Europe-India ties to reduce Russian energy dependence.
- Expresses optimism about ending the war “as soon as possible.”
- Notes a more positive conversation with Trump about Ukraine support.
India defends Russian oil trade as essential for energy security.In a pointed response to US President Donald Trump’s accusations, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that India is “mostly with Ukraine,” rejecting the notion that New Delhi is a key financier of Russia’s war effort. Zelenskyy made these remarks during an interview with Fox News anchor Bret Baier, where he addressed energy trade concerns and discussed the path to ending the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Trump, speaking at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), had accused both India and China of being “primary funders” of the war by continuing to purchase Russian oil and gas. He even announced that the United States had imposed steep “penalty tariffs” on India to discourage its imports of Russian crude.
Zelenskyy’s reassurance on India’s position
Zelenskyy took a different stance, saying that despite India’s energy ties with Russia, New Delhi remains mostly aligned with Kyiv’s position. “I think India, mostly, is with us,” he said, stressing that diplomatic engagement should continue to keep India engaged. He expressed hope that India would gradually adjust its approach to Russian energy imports and play a constructive role in bringing the war to an end.
Call for stronger Europe-India relations
The Ukrainian President urged Europe to strengthen its partnership with India, suggesting that deeper economic and political ties could encourage New Delhi to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on Russian crude. “With Europeans, make more close and strong relationship with India,” Zelenskyy remarked.
Positive outlook on Trump’s support
Despite differing on India’s role, Zelenskyy described his latest conversation with President Trump as “more positive,” stating that Trump expressed a desire to support Ukraine until the war concludes. “He wants, and I want, what our people want — to finish this war as soon as possible,” Zelenskyy said.
India’s response to western criticism
India has consistently defended its oil imports from Russia, insisting that the trade does not violate any international sanctions. Officials have also pointed out that Western nations continue to engage in trade with Moscow, accusing critics of hypocrisy. New Delhi maintains that safeguarding national energy security is a key priority for its economy.
Global stakes in the Ukraine war
Zelenskyy’s remarks highlight the importance of India as a diplomatic and economic partner in efforts to end the war. Both Kyiv and Washington have acknowledged that New Delhi’s stance could influence future peace negotiations.
