Zelenskyy Warns US Support for Russia Would Be a 'Historic Mistake' Amid Starlink Dispute

Key points

• Zelenskyy stated that US support for Russia would be a 'historic mistake' but expressed hope that Trump will reverse recent decisions.
• The US waived sanctions on Russian oil and gas buyers and agreed to release Russian diesel onto the global market, which Zelenskyy criticized.
• Ukraine experienced a temporary block on US intelligence sharing and speed restrictions on Starlink, which Zelenskyy attributed to US government pressure.
• Zelenskyy criticized Trump's diesel deal, arguing it will strengthen Russia's resolve to occupy Ukraine, while Trump claimed the move addresses soaring fuel costs.
• The relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy has strained, with Trump calling Zelenskyy 'more difficult to deal with than Putin.'
• Zelenskyy remains open to dialogue, hoping to resolve the impasse, while European allies urge caution to preserve US support.

Background

This dispute follows a period of escalating tensions between the US and Ukraine, including a previous fall-out in spring 2025 and recent Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure. The US has been Ukraine's most significant backer across four and a half years of war, but recent moves have raised doubts about long-term support. European allies have been scrambling to calm tensions and provide additional support to Ukraine.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News reported that Zelenskyy warned that US support for Russia would be a 'historic mistake' and that he still sees Trump as an ally. The Guardian reported that Zelenskyy felt personally betrayed by Trump over Starlink access and accused Trump of picking the other side. The Financial Times reported that Zelenskyy is standing up to Trump, but it is unclear if this will help Kyiv or hinder it. The outlets differ in their emphasis on the personal relationship between the leaders and the potential consequences of the US-Russia rapprochement.

Why it matters

The US-Russia-Ukraine dynamic is critical for global energy markets and the outcome of the war in Ukraine. The US waiver of sanctions and the diesel deal could impact global fuel prices and support Russia's war effort. The Starlink dispute highlights the importance of US support for Ukraine's defense capabilities. The strained relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy could affect the future of US-Ukraine relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.

What to watch

Zelenskyy is due to speak to US negotiators by phone and is hopeful of a meeting in the days ahead. European leaders are due to meet Zelenskyy in Brussels and are urging him to tone down his criticisms of Trump. The US White House has not responded to requests for comment. The situation is likely to evolve as the US and Ukraine navigate their differences and the war in Ukraine continues.