President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Russia can only win the war against Ukraine if it drags on for many years and the West withdraws sanctions.

Source: Zelenskyy in an interview with ABC News; a full video posted by the press service for the Ukrainian President’s Office

Quote: "As things stand, Putin cannot win this war – not as long as the world remains united and stands with us. It's impossible.

So, the only way he can win is if it turns into a very long war, lasting many, many years and without sanctions. That's what he truly desires, because he'll need money for this war and he wants to stay in the Kremlin until his death. That's his goal."

Details: Zelenskyy noted that US President Donald Trump believes Russia is winning the war and has said so publicly and in private conversations.

Quote from Zelenskyy: "I've said many times – that's not true. It's not about his words, it's about the reality. This is not a victory when you lose a million people just to seize a few thousand kilometres. This is about gaining the initiative through sheer numbers – in terms of both people and weapons – and that initiative is now in your hands. But that's not a victory, and I told President Trump that. You'll see it's not a victory. Of course, if you – the US and Europe – stop supporting us and walk away, then yes, they might win. But let me recall that even without all our partners, it was hard for them to occupy us at the beginning of the war."

Details: Zelenskyy emphasised that Russia's economy depends on oil and energy, and therefore, sanctions in these sectors must be introduced as soon as possible.

Quote:"They [the US – ed.] could have imposed energy restrictions and capped oil prices at US$30, no higher. We've lost three years – we gave them that money."

More details: In response to a question on whether Russia could win if the US stopped its aid to Ukraine, Zelenskyy said: "They would have a better chance, most likely". He added that in such a scenario, Ukraine would suffer far greater losses.

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