Zelenskyy: Ukraine now has cards and everyone understands it

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine now “has cards” because its soldiers and expanded defence production have raised its capabilities during the full-scale war. He framed this as a shift in how partners, including the United States, engage with Ukraine’s capacity and experience in modern land warfare. The practical consequence is a warning that outcomes will hinge on allies delivering support quickly enough to stop Russia and prevent escalation the world is unprepared to fight.

<p>In an interview with Irish blogger Caolan Robertson, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine now “has cards” due to its soldiers and increased defence production since the start of the full-scale invasion. He responded “Good” when asked how he feels about the United States turning to Ukraine rather than France or Germany and also declining the UK’s aircraft carrier.</p><p>Zelenskyy said the United States asked Ukraine for help and that he is proud Ukraine can assist American partners. He added that Ukraine had capabilities a year earlier but had not shown them, and that “now everybody understands” Ukraine has them.</p><p>He said peace depends on whether allies are ready to provide support, how quickly steps can be taken in the war, and how fast that support is implemented. Zelenskyy argued the world is not ready for World War III, describing Europe as not sufficiently prepared and saying the war is not only missiles and drones but also land forces, with Ukraine holding unique experience at significant human cost.</p>