Zelenskyy Emphasizes Unity, Hopes for Constructive U.S. Support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for unity at home and pragmatism in relations with the United States, saying that success for Ukraine also means success for America. His remarks come amid shifting diplomatic discussions and tensions over U.S. support.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged national unity and international cooperation in his nightly address on Wednesday, stressing the importance of strong ties with both the United States and Europe.

"We are standing strong on our own two feet. I am counting on Ukrainian unity, our courage... on the unity of Europe and the pragmatism of America," Zelenskyy said. "Because America needs success just as much as we do."

His remarks follow U.S.-Russian talks in Saudi Arabia this week on a potential settlement to the war, to which Ukraine was not invited. He noted that he would meet with the U.S. envoy for Russia and Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, on Thursday, calling it a crucial discussion.

"It is crucial for us that this meeting—and overall cooperation with America—be constructive," Zelenskyy stated. "Together with America and Europe, peace can be more secure, and this is our goal."

Zelenskyy also took aim at Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying that unity among Ukraine and its allies was the "strongest safeguard" for a future "without Putin, but with peace."

His comments follow a tense exchange with U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently called him a "dictator without elections" over Kyiv’s decision to suspend a wartime vote. Trump has also suggested that Ukraine bears responsibility for Russia’s 2022 invasion, adding further strain to relations between Kyiv and Washington.

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