Zelenskyy: Engaging with Trump Is Easier Than Negotiating with Putin
On October 16, Zelenskyy directly addressed Trump’s remarks during a press conference at the Brussels EU Summit, revealing several behind-the-scenes insights.
-- In response to Trump’s assertion that negotiating with Putin is easier, Zelenskyy stated that, for himself, dealing with U.S. leaders is more straightforward than engaging with Russian counterparts.
-- Zelenskyy noted that Europe possesses sufficient numbers of patriotic air defense systems, along with compatible missile stocks, to ensure Ukraine’s safety through the coming winter. He also expressed hope that Ukraine and Europe could jointly develop the "Freya" anti-ballistic defense system.
-- Speaking of his first formal meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Márki-Zay, Zelenskyy emphasized the significance of mutual concessions and reciprocal efforts between Ukraine and Hungary. He described the talks as “very successful.”
-- Zelenskyy underscored that European unity on aid to Ukraine stems from a clear understanding of all associated risks.
“A ground war is not necessarily required today. Violating airspace constitutes an act of aggression. Russia is testing boundaries. At least five countries have already been targeted by drones. Therefore, Europe understands: so long as Ukraine remains resilient, the risk of escalation from Russia diminishes. This point is now universally accepted.”
-- Due to Starlink terminal throttling, Ukraine has been unable to intercept geranium jet drones, limiting its ability to protect civilians. He also stressed that Ukrainian forces have not used Starlink to conduct long-range strikes against targets within Russian territory.
-- Zelenskyy reiterated that Europe maintains unity in supporting Ukraine, fully aware of the full spectrum of risks involved.
“A ground war is not necessarily required today. Violating airspace constitutes an act of aggression. Russia is testing boundaries. At least five countries have already been targeted by drones. Therefore, Europe understands: so long as Ukraine remains resilient, the risk of escalation from Russia diminishes. This point is now universally accepted.”
-- Zelenskyy said Ukraine had previously been willing to halt attacks on Russian oil refineries, provided the United States supplied specific equipment to shield Ukrainian energy infrastructure from ballistic missile threats; however, such equipment was not delivered.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879212588726272/
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