Zelensky Accuses Trump Administration of Overlooking Russia-Iran Cooperation
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused the administration of Donald Trump of ignoring what he describes as compelling evidence of cooperation between Russia and Iran in attacks targeting American bases in the Middle East. Speaking during a recent podcast appearance, Zelensky expressed frustration that his warnings have not been taken seriously in Washington, suggesting that political trust in Vladimir Putin may be influencing the U.S. response.
According to Zelensky, Ukraine has gathered intelligence indicating that Russia has used military satellites to map critical infrastructure across the region. This reportedly includes energy facilities in Gulf states and Israel, as well as the locations of U.S. military bases. He claims that such intelligence has been shared with Iran, enabling more precise drone and missile attacks against American-linked targets.
“I have said this publicly,” Zelensky noted. “But have we seen any reaction from the United States toward Russia demanding that this activity stop? The problem is that they actually trust Putin. And that is unfortunate.”
The Ukrainian leader’s remarks highlight growing concerns in Kyiv about the direction of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to Russia. Zelensky also criticised key figures within Trump’s team, arguing that they lack a full understanding of Moscow’s strategic objectives. He specifically mentioned Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, suggesting that they have spent too much time engaging with Russian officials and not enough time consulting with Ukrainian counterparts.
This imbalance, Zelensky warned, risks misreading the broader intentions of the Kremlin. He emphasised that Russia’s ambitions extend beyond territorial disputes and cannot be contained through concessions. In particular, he rejected the notion—sometimes floated in diplomatic discussions—that Ukraine might cede the Donbas region as part of a peace arrangement.
“Some in the U.S. believe Donbas is not important to us,” Zelensky said. “But they fail to recognise that Putin can lie and continue his occupation. They are convinced they can trust him.”
Zelensky argued that such assumptions are not only misguided but dangerous, especially in the context of an ongoing war. He reiterated that Russia has consistently demonstrated a willingness to exploit diplomatic openings while maintaining its military objectives.
Beyond criticism of U.S. policy, Zelensky also addressed the broader implications for European security. With Washington reportedly considering a reduced role in NATO, he stressed the urgency of strengthening regional defence cooperation. He proposed closer military coordination between the European Union, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Turkey, and Norway as a means of building a more resilient security framework.
According to Zelensky, such a coalition could serve as a credible deterrent against further Russian aggression, particularly if U.S. engagement becomes less predictable. He framed this approach as essential not only for Ukraine’s defence but for the stability of the wider European continent.
As geopolitical tensions continue to evolve, Zelensky’s remarks underscore the growing divide between Kyiv and Washington over how to interpret and respond to Russia’s actions. His warning is clear: underestimating Moscow—or placing undue trust in its leadership—could have far-reaching consequences for global security.