Zelensky Praises Real Leaders in Europe Amid Strained US Ties
Qwenews.com – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised real leaders in Europe during a Brussels summit on Friday, highlighting the European Union’s continued support as Kyiv’s relationship with US President Donald Trump becomes increasingly difficult.
Speaking alongside senior EU officials, Zelensky said European political and financial assistance has been vital to Ukraine’s ability to resist Russia’s full-scale invasion. His comments followed a turbulent week marked by pressure over Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy sites, concerns about satellite communications and shortages of air-defense missiles.
“I’m so thankful that we have such huge support from (the) EU Council, Commission and leaders – real leaders – so that they stay with us from the very beginning of this war,” Zelensky said.
European Support Contrasts With Washington Tensions
Zelensky did not directly mention Trump when he arrived in Brussels, but his remarks underscored the contrast between Europe’s backing and the more tense atmosphere surrounding talks with Washington.
The White House has urged Ukraine to halt attacks on Russian oil facilities, even as Russia continues striking Ukrainian power infrastructure. Kyiv paused attacks on Russian refineries for three days after Trump announced an “energy ceasefire” on Sunday, then resumed operations after Russia did not take similar steps.
Trump is seeking relief from high global diesel prices before next month’s midterm elections. He has linked elevated fuel costs to the Russia-Ukraine war while facing voter dissatisfaction over his war in Iran. European leaders were also surprised when Trump reached an arrangement allowing Russian diesel exports.
Zelensky said that decision left him feeling betrayed. Trump later renewed his criticism of the Ukrainian president, telling Newsmax that Zelensky was “more difficult to deal with than Putin.”
Satellite Access Raises Battlefield Questions
Ukraine has also faced restrictions affecting Starshield, the military-focused version of Elon Musk’s Starlink network. Zelensky said on Friday that the service had improved, although it had not fully returned to its previous speed.
Satellite connectivity is crucial for Ukrainian troops operating drones near the front line. Zelensky said slower service disrupted logistics and made it harder to protect civilians. Drones using Starlink systems can deliver food and water to troops, and they depend on fast, reliable communications.
“Have we fully restored the speed we had before? No. Is the speed coming back? Yes,” Zelensky said.
Trump denied responsibility for any disruption when questioned at the White House. He said neither his administration nor Musk had slowed the service. Musk had previously said that limiting Starshield would be a decision for the US president, while a senior US official said Trump had not requested such a move.
Patriot Missile Shortage Adds Pressure
The concerns extend to Ukraine’s air defenses. The country has run out of interceptor missiles for the US-made Patriot system, creating a serious gap in protection against some of Russia’s most dangerous aerial attacks.
Zelensky said it was widely understood that Ukraine was no longer a leading destination for Patriot interceptors, with many missiles now being sent to the Middle East. He nevertheless thanked European governments helping finance assistance, along with NATO and the White House.
“It’s an open secret that we are not a priority destination for these missiles now,” Zelensky said at Friday’s news conference.
Ukraine also said it did not receive its usual early warning from the United States before a Russian ballistic missile struck a major Kyiv power plant and damaged a residential building. Trump rejected claims that intelligence sharing had been reduced.
As Zelensky praises real leaders in Europe, the message from Brussels is that European support remains central to Ukraine’s military resilience, civilian protection and ability to withstand continuing Russian attacks.
FAQ: Ukraine, Europe and US Support
Why did Zelensky praise European leaders?
Zelensky thanked EU institutions and national leaders for sustained political and financial support since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
Why is Starshield important for Ukraine?
Reliable satellite communications help Ukrainian forces coordinate drone operations, move supplies and support troops near the front line, including in areas where conventional communications are limited.
Why does Ukraine need Patriot interceptor missiles?
Patriot systems are a major part of Ukraine’s defense against advanced Russian aerial threats. A lack of interceptor missiles can leave cities, energy facilities and residential areas more vulnerable to attack.