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European leaders rallied behind Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at a summit in Brussels on Friday, as relations between the United States and Ukraine became increasingly strained, CNN reported.
In recent days, the White House has put growing pressure on Zelensky to stop attacks on Russian oil facilities, while Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure have continued.
Last week, US President Donald Trump surprised Zelensky and European leaders by reaching a deal that allowed Russian diesel exports. Zelensky said the move had left him feeling betrayed.
On Sunday, Trump announced that an “energy ceasefire” between Russia and Ukraine had been agreed and was “effective immediately”. Moscow did not confirm the announcement. Zelensky backed the idea but indicated he had not been informed beforehand.
Arriving at the summit alongside senior European Union officials, Zelensky did not address worsening relations with Washington or disruptions Ukraine experienced this week to US intelligence sharing and “Starshield” internet connectivity. Instead, he highlighted Kyiv’s ties with the EU.
“I’m so thankful that we have such huge support from the EU Council, Commission and leaders – real leaders – so that they stay with us from the very beginning of this war,” Zelensky said.
He said Ukraine wanted to end the war as soon as possible but saw no indication that Russia was ready to do so. “That’s why we have to prepare for the winter,” he said, adding that energy needs were at the top of his agenda.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU had supported Trump’s proposed energy ceasefire, but accused Russia of not respecting it and escalating its actions. She called for increased pressure on Moscow.
Zelensky said Ukraine needed more than energy support, citing air defence and funding, and thanked the EU for standing with his country.
Ukraine has also run out of missiles for the US-made “Patriot” air defence system, leaving it more vulnerable to Russian ballistic missile attacks, a source familiar with the situation told CNN on Thursday.
