Putin defiant as Zelensky seeks Western backing
Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky exchanged sharp comments. Zelensky criticised Putin for his aggressive rhetoric and lack of respect for human life. Putin, in turn, stated that he does not regret the decision to invade Ukraine. The Hungarian Prime Minister proposed a ceasefire during the Christmas holidays.
While the European Union summit was taking place in Brussels, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticised Putin for his aggressive rhetoric and lack of respect for human life. "People are dying, and he thinks it’s ‘interesting’ ... Dumbass" Zelensky stated.
At the same time, during a press conference in Moscow, Putin expressed his readiness for talks with the new U.S. President, Donald Trump, and dialogue with Ukraine, but only based on the current territorial situation. Putin stated that he does not regret the decision to invade Ukraine in 2022. "I did everything to make Russia an independent sovereign state," he said.
Zelensky on support from the U.S. and Europe
After meeting with European leaders, Zelensky emphasised the need for U.S. and European support.
He emphasized the necessity of involving both the United States and Europe, noting that European security guarantees by themselves are insufficient.
During the EU summit, European leaders supported Ukraine but avoided clear declarations on future security guarantees. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ruled out the possibility of sending Spanish troops to Ukraine after the end of the war.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán proposed a ceasefire in Ukraine during the Christmas holidays, which met with criticism from Zelensky, who considered it an unserious PR stunt. European Council President António Costa also expressed scepticism about this proposal.
The G7 countries are considering tightening sanctions on Russian oil, including the possibility of a total ban on its handling or lowering the maximum price from £49 to approximately £33 per barrel. This is part of a broader strategy aimed at weakening the Russian economy.
Source: Politico
