Ukraine's leadership voiced its worries over the possibility that the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran could hinder military assistance to Kyiv, especially during a time when European backing is already diminishing in the absence of US engagement. Following Israel's significant military strikes targeting Iranian assets, which included facilities related to nuclear and military operations along with high-ranking military personnel, Iran retaliated with drone and missile attacks aimed at Israel.
The increasing tensions have prompted international calls for restraint, as the fear of a broader conflict looms. In Ukraine, there is a heightened concern that the United States might redirect resources to bolster its ally, Israel, instead of supporting Ukraine's defense efforts. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of uninterrupted military aid, reflecting on previous instances where geopolitical shifts detracted from support for Ukraine.
Zelenskyy noted that Europe remains uncertain about its strategy for aiding Ukraine if the US falls back from its commitments, an urgency amplified by the recent return of former President Donald Trump to the White House, which has disrupted the flow of aid previously extended to Kyiv. Trump’s efforts to establish warmer relations with Russia, including several phone calls with President Vladimir Putin, have contrasted sharply with the previous administration's stringent stance against Moscow following Ukraine's invasion.
Moreover, Zelenskyy pointed out that the Israeli attacks had inadvertently increased oil prices, which could bolster Russia financially. He reiterated the need for the West to impose price caps on Russian oil exports and expressed hope that discussions on this matter could take place during an anticipated meeting with Trump. Amid these geopolitical tensions, there is some optimism that decreased Iranian military support to Russia could arise from the ongoing conflicts, potentially benefiting Ukraine in the long term.
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