Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concerns about Russia's recent financial gains of approximately $10 billion during two weeks of conflict in the Middle East, attributing this increase to soaring oil prices. He pointed out that this economic boost is dangerous as it empowers President Putin and potentially prolongs the war against Ukraine. Zelensky elaborates on the implications of this newfound revenue, suggesting that it could embolden further aggression from Russia, undermining prospects for peace.

Zelensky also referenced Western sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union, indicating that these measures, along with Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, are expected to lead to a significant financial deficit of over $100 billion for Russia by 2026. Despite the sanctions, the rapid influx of funds from the energy sector highlights the complexity of the economic warfare at play and raises fundamental questions about the effectiveness of current sanctions.

Furthermore, Zelensky articulated his concerns that Putin has never truly intended to end the war in Ukraine and only feigned interest in negotiations due to pressure from the U.S. He called for increased pressure on Russia, asserting that without it, Putin would not negotiate in good faith. Zelensky warned that Russia's demands, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces, would not satisfy Putin's ambitions, thus calling into question the viability of diplomatic solutions without sustained international support for Ukraine.