Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has clarified his stance on India’s role in the Russia-Ukraine war, appearing to diverge from former US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks.
In an interview with Fox News, Zelensky said India is “mostly with us,” while acknowledging some issues related to energy trade with Russia.
The comments come after Trump labelled India and China as “primary funders” of the ongoing war in Ukraine, citing their continued purchase of Russian oil. Zelensky stressed that while there are concerns over India’s energy deals with Russia, he is hopeful the country will adjust its approach.
“With the Europeans, we should build closer and stronger relations with India. We have to ensure India is not pushed away, and I am confident they will change their stance on Russian energy,” Zelensky said. He contrasted this with China, noting, “With China, it’s more difficult because today it’s not in their interests not to support Russia.”
Zelensky also suggested that Trump could potentially influence China’s position. “I think President Trump can change Xi Jinping’s attitude toward this war because China doesn’t currently seem interested in ending it,” he told Fox News’ Special Report.
These remarks surfaced shortly after Trump’s UN General Assembly speech, in which he criticised India and China for allegedly funding the war, following the recent implementation of a 50% tariff on Indian imports on August 27.
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