Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the war in the Middle East, the cooperation between Russia and Iran, and Russia’s use of sports and culture for propaganda.
He shared his views in an interview with Irish blogger Caolán Robertson, published on March 11.
Ukraine Has “Trump Cards” Thanks to Drone Experience
The president said that the U.S. request for Ukraine’s help against Iranian attack drones in the Middle East shows that Ukraine has important capabilities and experience. According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine developed drone countermeasure technologies through the war with Russia.
He also responded to former U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously claimed that Ukraine lacks “cards.”
“I think… yes. We had them, like a good player. You can have good cards, but it’s important not to show everyone that you have them. I think a year ago, we also had our ‘cards,’ but we didn’t show them. Now everyone understands that they exist.”
The World Nears a Third World War
Zelenskyy expressed concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East. He warned that if the war continues, it could turn into a global conflict.
“We are very close. I don’t see how the operation in Iran can be quick. I see more global challenges. If the war doesn’t stop by autumn, it will continue for a long time.”
He added that the Russia–Iran cooperation in drone production poses a serious threat. Ukrainian intelligence has identified Russian components in Shahed-type drones used in the Middle East. Zelenskyy also noted that he warned about potential escalation a year ago:
“I said there would be a Third World War. The president did not listen to me.”
Zelenskyy believes the world is not yet ready for a global war, as it would involve not only missile and drone strikes but also large-scale ground combat.
Russia Uses Sports and Culture for Propaganda
The president said Russia’s participation in international sports and cultural events forms part of its information campaign.
“Participation in major sports events is a way to strengthen influence because the audience you can reach is huge.”
Zelenskyy compared Russian leader Vladimir Putin to Adolf Hitler, commenting on the political use of culture and sports:
“We know how it ended for Hitler. We understand how it will end for Putin. Using sports, music, cinema, and art festivals like the Venice Biennale as weapons never helps.”
He added that Russian propaganda spreads even through cultural events and children’s content.
Context
In early March, organizers of the Venice Biennale announced that Russia could participate in the exhibition for the first time since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Ukraine and the European Commission criticized this decision.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that last year Ukraine offered the U.S. its combat-tested technology for intercepting attack drones used by Russia, but Washington declined the offer.
