Zelenskyy warns of US betrayal as Russian strikes hit Kyiv

Why This Matters

• The strikes on residential buildings in the capital show the continuing toll of the war on Ukrainian civilians.
• A US diesel deal with Moscow raises questions about Washington's commitment to Ukraine at a critical moment.
• A deepening rift between Kyiv and Washington could affect the course of the conflict and Western unity.

Background

The war in Ukraine began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. Since then, the United States has been one of Ukraine's largest backers, providing military and financial support, while Ukrainian cities have repeatedly come under Russian missile and drone attacks. President Trump has long questioned the scale of US support for Ukraine.

Key Perspectives

Ukrainians on the ground: Accuse the United States of gambling with their lives as Russian strikes devastate residential buildings. President Zelenskyy: Warns that Trump is not on the right side of history, framing the diesel deal with Moscow as a betrayal. Critics and skeptics: May see the deal as rewarding Moscow while it continues attacks on civilian areas, weakening the Western position and encouraging further strikes.

What to Watch

• Whether Washington expands economic ties with Moscow beyond the diesel deal.
• Whether Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities escalate further.
• How Ukraine's other allies respond to the apparent US shift.