‘Have to do everything not to …’: Zelenskyy’s measured message on India buying Russian oil; hopeful after meeting Trump

Volodymyr Zelenskyy (left), PM Narendra Modi (PTI)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed hope that stronger diplomatic engagement between India and the West could prompt New Delhi to reconsider its energy imports from Russia. In an interview with Fox News, Zelenskyy underscored the need to keep India aligned with the Western bloc amid the ongoing war with Russia.He also called on the West, particularly the United States and Europe, to deepen strategic engagement with India and discourage its energy ties with Russia. “We have to do everything not to withdraw India, and they’ll change their attitude to the Russian energy sector. I’m sure,” Zelenskyy told Fox’s Bret Baier, suggesting that greater diplomatic efforts could encourage India to rethink its approach to sourcing energy from Russia. While acknowledging concerns over India’s energy imports, he expressed confidence in US President Donald Trump’s ability to manage those issues. “Yes, we had these questions with energy, but I think President Trump can manage it,” he said.His remarks came in the broader context of discussing global alignments, particularly countries perceived as closer to Russia. Commenting on Iran, the Ukrainian president stated: “Iran will never be on our side. Because it will never be on the side of the United States.”He went on to add, “I think India’s mostly with us,” reinforcing his belief that India remains a potential strategic partner for the West.Zelenskyy also indicated that closer cooperation between Europe and India could help shift New Delhi’s position. “With Europeans, make more close and strong relationship with India,” he added.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,” Zelenskyy said.“We are ready to finish this war as soon as possible. He wants and I want and our people want,” he added, while also noting that Trump recognises the challenges posed by Russia. “He understands that Putin doesn’t want that and is not winning but he says to everyone that he’ll win.”