Zelensky insists on direct US ties amidst Orban's remarks
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, responded to comments made by Viktor Orban. He emphasized that Ukraine needs direct relations with the United States without intermediaries.
1:19 PM EST, December 17, 2024
President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed the importance of Ukraine having direct interactions with the United States. "We are currently in a transitional period in the United States. I am in contact with President Trump," he stated. "We have had several meetings and talks. I don't need intermediaries for this," Zelensky announced during the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities in Ukraine.
Zelensky responds to Orban
He added that "various politicians are using this for publicity" and, in this context, referred to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. "I will not let him and those like him go first. We need direct relations with the United States," he emphasized.
Zelensky highlighted Ukraine's strength, as demonstrated during the defensive war with Russia. "Does Orban have such an army? What leverage does he have over Putin? A joke? A smile?" he questioned.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban announced on December 11 that his country has undertaken new peace efforts, stating he spoke with Vladimir Putin by phone about Ukraine. "We will use all diplomatic means at our disposal to achieve a ceasefire and move closer to peace," declared Orban.
Zelensky added that until Trump takes office, Ukraine is working with President Joe Biden, who has increased the number of decisions and aid packages for Ukraine. "It's a pity they are intensifying this now, at the end of the term," he noted. He expressed hope that the Trump administration will support Ukraine and not halt this assistance.
