Zelensky: Tension in the Middle East increases aid to Israel

Zelensky evaluated the Russia-Ukraine war and developments in the Middle East at a press conference he held in Kyiv.

In his speech, Zelensky touched upon developments regarding the ongoing war in his country and provided information about the clashes in the Sumy region.

Stating that the Russian army continues its attacks up to 7 kilometers deep into the Sumy region near the Russia-Ukraine border, and that they have stopped the Russian advance in this direction, Zelensky said, "The important thing is that there are 53 thousand Russian (soldiers) there. The clashes there are continuing along the border. I want you to understand that the enemy has been stopped there."

Zelensky also reported that heavy clashes are taking place in the direction of the city of Kostiantynivka in the Donetsk region.

President Zelensky also stated that they are preparing for the mass production of domestic ballistic missiles.

"WE HAVE NOT SEEN IT ON UKRAINIAN SOIL YET"

Zelensky also spoke about the recent allegations regarding the Patriot air defense system that was said to have been sent by Israel to Ukraine.

Stating that the one system in question was first sent by Israel to the US for maintenance before being transferred to Ukraine, Zelensky said, "We have not seen this system on Ukrainian soil yet."

Noting that they have created a list to purchase the weapons Ukraine needs and are in contact with the relevant companies in the US, Zelensky stated that the final decision on this matter will be made between the leaders of the two countries.

RUSSIA-UKRAINE NEGOTIATIONS

Zelensky reported that prisoner exchanges and the return of remains are continuing within the scope of the agreements reached with Russia during the negotiations held in Istanbul on June 2.

Stating that the prisoner exchange process could last until June 20 or 21, Zelensky noted that it might be possible to take new steps in the negotiations only after that.

Reporting that meetings were held between Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and Vladimir Medinsky, who headed the Russian delegation in direct negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul, Zelensky stated the following:

"According to the information I have, our Minister of Defense is in contact with Medinsky, the representative of the Russian group, regarding these exchanges. According to the agreement, the exchanges will be completed and the parties will discuss the next step."

Zelensky also said that the memorandum Russia conveyed to the Ukrainian side in Istanbul regarding the establishment of a ceasefire was actually an ultimatum.

DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

In his speech, Zelensky touched upon the developments between Israel and Iran, saying that the tension in the Middle East could also lead to negative consequences for Ukraine.

Noting that oil prices have increased due to the attacks Israel launched on Iran, Zelensky argued that Russia would benefit from this situation, saying, "This situation really does not benefit us."

In his speech, Zelensky assessed, "The Russians are getting stronger due to the large revenues obtained from oil exports."

Also stating that aid to Ukraine has decreased due to the military support the US provides to Israel, Zelensky noted the following:

"Of course, when tension in the Middle East escalates, the result is an increase in aid to Israel."