BERLIN, Germany — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Tuesday that United States peace negotiators have shifted focus away from Ukraine due to the war involving Iran, and warned of delays in U.S. arms deliveries.
In an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Zelensky said U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently engaged in talks related to Iran, limiting their attention to negotiations aimed at ending Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Zelensky said sustained diplomatic pressure on Russia is necessary, adding that without it, Moscow would not feel compelled to change its position.
Peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian representatives have stalled since February, when negotiations last took place in Geneva.
Zelensky also said delays in U.S. weapons deliveries pose a significant challenge for Ukraine, particularly for air defense systems such as interceptor missiles.
He said deliveries have slowed since the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, creating difficulties for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Zelensky made the remarks during a visit to Norway, where he met Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. The two leaders announced a joint declaration to strengthen defense and security cooperation, including plans to manufacture Ukrainian drones in Norway.
Earlier in the day, Zelensky met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other officials in Berlin to discuss the ongoing war with Russia.
