Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed disappointment with Donald Trump, saying it is “painful” when the U.S. president takes a position that does not support Ukraine in its war with Russia.
Speaking in an interview with Piers Morgan Uncensored on Wednesday, October 14, Zelenskyy addressed growing tensions with Washington. His comments followed Trump’s recent call for Ukraine to replace its president.
“It’s painful when President Trump chooses one side, not our side,” Zelenskyy said, according to Reuters.
Zelenskyy Questions Trump’s Position on Ukraine
The Ukrainian leader said he could accept Trump acting as a neutral figure between Kyiv and Moscow. However, he argued that genuine neutrality requires equal treatment of both sides.
“If you are in the middle, you have to stay in the middle,” Zelenskyy said.
His remarks came after Trump called for a change in Ukraine’s leadership over the weekend.
The U.S. president also agreed to lift sanctions on Russian diesel exports. That decision has raised further questions about Washington’s approach to Russia during the ongoing war.
Zelenskyy’s comments reflect his frustration with the direction of American policy.
For Ukraine, U.S. support has played a major role in its ability to resist Russia’s invasion. Changes in Washington’s position could therefore have significant consequences for Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Addresses Feelings of Betrayal
During the interview, Zelenskyy also faced a direct question about whether he felt betrayed by Trump.
“Really, yes … but it’s a little bit more complicated than just my emotions or my feelings,” he responded.
He then expressed concern about Ukraine’s relationship with one of its most influential international partners.
“It’s a pity we are losing (a) strong partner,” Zelenskyy added.
Despite his disappointment, the Ukrainian president emphasized that his country’s future cannot become part of a political or commercial negotiation.
“We are not selling our country … it’s not about business for us, it’s just our life and this is our country,” he said.
His statements highlight the growing differences between Kyiv and Washington as the war continues.
They also underline Ukraine’s determination to defend its sovereignty while its relationship with the United States faces renewed uncertainty.
