Zelensky stated that the war against Iran could complicate the supply of missiles to Ukraine
In an exclusive interview with Corriere Della Sera, Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he considers strikes against Iranian military targets to be justified, as this country produces weapons for Russia, including drones and missiles. At the same time, he suggested that Iran may now lose this opportunity.
The president noted that the conflict in the Middle East could affect the supply of missiles for Ukraine's air defence system. According to him, American missiles, including Patriot missiles, may be needed by the United States and its allies in the region. Zelensky recalled that during the war in June 2025, deliveries to Ukraine had already slowed down.
Speaking about Russia's position, he called Vladimir Putin a weaker ally of Iran. According to Zelensky, Moscow is not taking active measures, but only making statements. He also noted that Russia manufactures Shahed drones under licence from Iran at two factories.
The president stressed that he does not consider the situation with Iran to be similar to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as Ukraine was attacked by ground forces and has been subjected to attempts at occupation for 12 years. At the same time, he expressed concern about the possible prolongation of the war in the Middle East and the increase in civilian casualties.
Zelensky confirmed Ukraine's readiness to share its experience in the field of unmanned technologies with partners, in particular with the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, France and Germany. He stressed that Ukraine has become the front line of Europe's defence.
Regarding the negotiation process with Russia, the President stated that the next trilateral meeting with US representatives had not been cancelled and could take place on 5 or 6 March. The venue may change from Abu Dhabi to Geneva or another European location. He also expressed hope for a new prisoner exchange.
According to Zelenskyy, the parties remain in their previous positions on Donbas. He said that he had agreed to the US proposal to freeze the line of fire, but Russia insists on the complete withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Donbas. The President said that he would not agree to leave the region and the 200,000 Ukrainians who live there.
He noted that since the beginning of the year, Ukraine has regained 460 square kilometres of territory. According to him, Russia is losing up to 35,000 soldiers per month and is preparing to mobilise another 400,000 people, but serious negotiations will begin when the Russian army starts to shrink.
The president acknowledged the shortage of military personnel in the Armed Forces of Ukraine and stressed the need to end the war. He stated that Russia had not achieved the goals of its winter campaign and had failed to break the resistance of Ukrainian society.
Speaking about the role of Europe, Zelensky noted that it has economic potential but is not yet sufficiently developed in the military sphere. He considers it necessary to obtain licences to produce American weapons in Europe.
Commenting on Viktor Orbán's position, the President said that Hungary does not have significant military weight, and Orbán himself depends on the support of political forces. He also reported on contacts with Robert Fico and expressed the opinion that the issue of restoring the Druzhba oil pipeline is only possible after a ceasefire.
Regarding Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Zelensky noted that Italy is providing military assistance within its capabilities.
The President said that elections in Ukraine can only take place after the war ends, and the question of his participation in them will depend on the will of the Ukrainian people.
Responding to accusations regarding the fight against corruption, he emphasised the creation of independent institutions to conduct relevant investigations.
