Ukrainian president says prolonged Iran war only benefits Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday claimed that Russia is benefiting from the ongoing war in Iran while Kyiv is being left behind, according to an Axios report.

In a virtual interview with Axios, Zelenskyy said: "I am sure Russia wants long war. They have benefits: The U.S. is focusing on the Middle East and may decrease military help to Ukraine. Sanctions are partially lifted. I see only benefits for Russia from the war with Iran continuing."

He argued that Russia is making more money from oil sales as energy prices rise, and warned that Ukraine's weapons supply would also be affected by a prolonged Iran war.

Russia has not immediately commented on the claims.

Zelenskyy further stated that Ukraine shared intelligence with Middle Eastern leaders showing that Russia had given Iran satellite images of US and allied military bases in the region.

On peace talks with Russia, Zelenskyy said he fears the US will pressure Ukraine to give up territory, adding: "We are not the aggressors."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday claimed that Russia is benefiting from the ongoing war in Iran while Kyiv is being left behind, according to an Axios report.

He argued that Russia is making more money from oil sales as energy prices rise, and warned that Ukraine's weapons supply would also be affected by a prolonged Iran war.

Russia has not immediately commented on the claims.

Zelenskyy further stated that Ukraine shared intelligence with Middle Eastern leaders showing that Russia had given Iran satellite images of US and allied military bases in the region.

On peace talks with Russia, Zelenskyy said he fears the US will pressure Ukraine to give up territory, adding: "We are not the aggressors."