Zelenskyy says diplomacy to be strong only with ‘strong frontline positions’ for Ukraine

“Diplomacy will only be strong with strong frontline positions. And we are doing everything to ensure that Ukraine’s frontline needs are met,” Zelenskyy said in a nightly video address shared on X late Sunday.

Expressing that he heard a report from Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov on his contacts and meetings with Ukraine’s partners on new support packages, Zelenskyy said support packages are being prepared by neighboring Poland, while they are expecting an expedited delivery of IRIS-T air defense systems and ammunition from Germany.

Zelenskyy went on to underline that it is important Germany understands its role as a key security pillar of Europe and the “modern free world,” and that Kyiv is also working with the EU at the level of EU institutions to cover existing supply shortages.

He said that the Netherlands conveyed its readiness to continue investing in weapons production in Ukraine, while the Nordic and Baltic states expressed full support for Kyiv, signaling further efforts to bolster the country amid the ongoing war.

Zelenskyy also commented on his upcoming contacts in Saudi Arabia on Monday, saying during the talks they will continue “working to bring peace closer.”

“Also, today, the meeting of our teams – Ukraine and the United States – in Saudi Arabia has been further prepared. We hope for results – both in bringing peace closer and in continuing support,” he added.

On Saturday, the Ukrainian president declared on X that he will hold talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a visit to the Gulf country on Monday, where delegations from the US and Russia met last month to discuss normalizing bilateral relations and ending the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Last week, Washington halted military funding and intelligence sharing with Ukraine following a heated Oval Office exchange between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump.

As the US stepped back from supporting Ukraine, various European leaders have stepped forward to stress their steadfast support for Ukraine, in the form of military aid and other initiatives.