Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday said US peace negotiators are increasingly distracted by the conflict in Iran, warning that Ukraine is losing critical attention and military support as a result.
In an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Zelensky said figures like Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner — involved in efforts to broker talks with Moscow — are currently focused on Iran-related discussions. He described them as “pragmatic,” but suggested they are trying to draw more engagement from Vladimir Putin to push for an end to the war.
Zelensky cautioned that without stronger US pressure, Russia would not feel compelled to negotiate seriously. “If the United States only engages in a gentle dialogue, the Russians will no longer be afraid,” he said.
Peace talks led by Washington have stalled since the Iran conflict escalated in late March, with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators not meeting since February in Geneva.
He also flagged growing concerns over delays in US arms deliveries, calling the situation “a big problem.” Zelensky warned that if the war drags on, Ukraine could face shrinking supplies — particularly for air defense systems such as PAC-2 and PAC-3 interceptor missiles.
Speaking later in Norway alongside Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Zelensky said these systems are largely procured through the PURL program, which enables European countries to finance US military equipment for Ukraine. However, deliveries have slowed, putting Kyiv in a “very difficult position.”
The two leaders announced a joint declaration to deepen defense and security cooperation, including plans to expand collaboration between their defense industries. As part of the agreement, Ukrainian drones will now be manufactured in Norway.
Earlier in the day, Zelensky visited Berlin for talks with Chancellor Friedrich Merz and senior officials, where both sides unveiled a new strategic defense partnership aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s position in its ongoing war with Russia.
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