'Russia Wants To Drag Out War': Zelenskyy Warns EU To Stop Funding Putin With Oil Buys

Last Updated:September 05, 2025, 16:08 IST

Zelenskyy stressed the need for modern missile defence systems, fighter jets, and stronger air protection to prevent civilian deaths

Ukrainian President Trump reiterated his belief that he is best positioned to resolve the war (Image: Mandel NGAN/AFP)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday urged European countries to stop buying Russian oil, warning that such purchases help fund Vladimir Putin’s war machine and prolong the war in Ukraine.

In a video message posted as a series of threads on X, Zelenskyy said he made the remarks while speaking at the Ambrosetti Forum, an annual international economic conference held at Villa d’Este in Cernobbio, Italy.

“President Trump expects a stronger Europe with closer US coordination. But he’s disappointed some countries still buy Russian oil, funding Putin’s war machine. Energy independence from Russia is vital for Europe’s security and is a key to strong relations with the US," Zelenskyy wrote.

He also warned that “Russia wants to drag out the war," and called on Europe to push back by strengthening defence cooperation and reducing dependence on Russian energy.

“Even as Russia tries to prolong the war, we are already building a security system that will push it toward peace. On land, in the air, at sea – our strength that will pressure Russia to stop the war," he said.

Zelenskyy stressed the need for modern missile defence systems, fighter jets, and stronger air protection to prevent civilian deaths, which he described as Russia’s “main tool of war".

The Ukrainian president stressed the growing international support through the “Coalition of the Willing", which now includes 35 countries, 26 of which are ready to provide real security guarantees. “President Trump confirmed: America is ready to take part," he noted.

Zelenskyy also said that Europe must build a new network of modern defence production, adding, “countries supporting each other, producing protection not just for themselves but for all of Europe. This will make Europe stronger and more resilient."

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