New Delhi: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for stronger diplomatic engagement between India and Western countries, suggesting that deeper cooperation could encourage New Delhi to reconsider its energy imports from Russia. Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Zelenskyy emphasised the importance of keeping India aligned with the West amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Zelenskyy highlights energy ties and global alignments
Zelenskyy noted that India’s energy imports from Russia remain a concern for Ukraine and its Western allies. “We have to do everything not to withdraw India, and they’ll change their attitude to the Russian energy sector. I’m sure,” he said, adding that greater diplomatic efforts from the West could prompt India to rethink its approach to sourcing energy.
While acknowledging concerns about energy dependence, Zelenskyy expressed confidence in former US President Donald Trump’s ability to manage related issues. “Yes, we had these questions with energy, but I think President Trump can manage it,” he said.
India as a potential strategic partner
The Ukrainian president also reinforced his belief that India remains a potential strategic partner for the West. “I think India’s mostly with us,” he said, highlighting the importance of deepening strategic ties. Zelenskyy suggested that stronger engagement with Europe could help shift India’s position regarding Russian energy. “With Europeans, make more close and strong relationship with India,” he added.
Remarks on other countries and global context
In the broader context of global alignments, Zelenskyy commented on countries perceived to be closer to Russia. Regarding Iran, he remarked, “Iran will never be on our side. Because it will never be on the side of the United States.”
He also spoke positively about his recent interaction with Trump, describing him as supportive of Ukraine’s position. “President Trump was more positive. He showed that he wants to support Ukraine to the very end. We are ready to finish this war as soon as possible. He wants and I want and our people want,” Zelenskyy said. He added that Trump recognises the challenges posed by Russia, noting, “He understands that Putin doesn’t want that and is not winning but he says to everyone that he’ll win.”
Conclusion
Zelenskyy’s comments underscore Ukraine’s interest in strengthening ties with India and encouraging its alignment with Western strategies, particularly on energy imports. His remarks come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, reflecting the broader diplomatic efforts aimed at curbing Russian influence in the global energy market while maintaining India as a strategic partner.