Zelensky urges Trump to keep US backing Ukraine ahead of State of the Union
Feb 23rd 2026
In Kyiv on the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion, President Volodymyr Zelensky told CNN he wants the United States to stay on Ukraine’s side and pressed for concrete security guarantees and Congressional ratification.
- Zelensky appealed directly to President Trump to "stay on our side" and said he hopes for backing in the State of the Union.
- He told CNN the United States is too big to walk away and said Trump is not putting enough pressure on Vladimir Putin.
- Trilateral peace talks have not produced a breakthrough, with security guarantees remaining the main sticking point.
- Zelensky insists security guarantees must be agreed and ratified by the US Congress before any final peace deal is signed.
- He said Ukraine would consider freezing the front lines but will not withdraw from Donetsk territory still under Kyiv control.
- Martial law has delayed Ukrainian elections and Zelensky said he does not know whether Trump wants a different Ukrainian leader.
- Zelensky attended a ceremony honoring fallen soldiers and showed visible emotion while presenting medals to their families.