Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed feelings of betrayal following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel imports, a move experts warn could strengthen Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Zelensky’s remarks came during an interview with broadcaster Piers Morgan, where he acknowledged the sense of losing a key partner while reaffirming Ukraine’s resolve to continue resisting Russian aggression.

The conflict, which began in February 2022 with Russia’s large-scale invasion, has inflicted severe hardship on Ukraine, with widespread destruction and loss of life. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s struggle is not driven by economic interests but the defense of its sovereignty, culture, and future generations. He rejected any notion of compromise that would sacrifice the country’s independence.

Putin’s ambitions extend beyond the currently occupied eastern territories and Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Ukrainian officials and analysts warn that Moscow aims to subjugate the entire country, suppressing its language and identity and conscripting its youth into the Russian military. Experts contend that a Russian victory would result in Ukraine becoming a puppet state under tighter Moscow control, similar to Belarus.

Trump has argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin is more eager for a deal than Zelensky. However, critics suggest that any ceasefire under Russian terms could merely provide Moscow an opportunity to regroup and launch further offensives against a weakened Ukraine.

While European leaders have reiterated their support for Kyiv during Zelensky’s visits to Brussels, London, and other capitals, they recognize that Europe alone cannot sustain Ukraine’s defense. Military analysts note that Europe currently lacks sufficient air defense capabilities, intelligence resources, and industrial capacity to replace the diminished U.S. role.

There is concern that additional U.S. policy shifts under Trump, such as further easing sanctions on Russian oil or suspending mechanisms like the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements System (PURL), which facilitates European procurement of American defense equipment for Ukraine, could undermine Kyiv’s resilience.

Although Washington has reduced direct military aid and intelligence sharing, it retains significant influence over Ukraine’s future. Recent indications that Trump was amenable to cutting off U.S. intelligence support to Ukraine raised alarms among allies, highlighting the precarious position Kyiv faces as it seeks to maintain Western backing amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.