Russia-Ukraine war | Amid shifting political winds Zelensky warns Ukraine 'will lose' without US aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning: without continued US military aid, Ukraine's ability to withstand Russia's ongoing invasion is at grave risk. In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday (Nov 19), Zelensky admitted, "If they cut (the aid), we will — I think we will lose". 

"We will fight. We have our production, but it's not enough to prevail. And I think it's not enough to survive," he added. 

The President of the war-torn nation also highlighted the critical importance of US-Ukraine unity, describing it as the foundation of Ukraine's resilience. 

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Describing the "unity" between Ukraine and the United States as "most important," he once again praised Trump. Zelensky said that the incoming US president could influence Russian President Vladimir Putin "because he is much more stronger than Putin."

He said that the Russian president "can be willing and end this war, but it also depends on the United States of America much more. Putin is weaker than the United States of America."

Previously, he said that Russia's war against his country would "end sooner" once Donald Trump assumes office as the President of the United States.

US-Ukraine alliance faces uncertainty  

Since the beginning of Russia's "special military operation" in February 2022, the US has been an important ally for Kyiv, with the current Biden administration channelling billions in military and humanitarian aid to bolster Ukraine's defences. However, the impending inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump has introduced an element of uncertainty into the mix. 

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Trump has been vocal throughout his campaign and before about his scepticism of US funnelling billions into supporting Kyiv. The Republican leader has repeatedly referred to the assistance as a drain on American resources and has pledged to end the war swiftly—but has provided few details about his plan to do so.  

The debate over US involvement in the Ukraine War has recently intensified with President Joe Biden's approval for Ukraine to use long-range US missiles for strikes within Russian territory. The move, while celebrated by Kyiv, has been criticised by Trump's allies, who accused the incumbent president of a dangerous escalation.

Meanwhile, after Biden's approval, Russia has upped the stakes by allowing the use of nuclear weapons against a non-nuclear state receiving backing from nuclear powers.

(With inputs from agencies)