Zelensky is being prepared for a difficult conversation because of Trump: what do EU leaders want?

European Union leaders plan to ask President Volodymyr Zelensky to tone down his public criticism of Donald Trump, fearing that harsh language could further strain Ukraine’s relations with the United States.

This is reported by the Financial Times, citing three officials familiar with the preparations for the meeting on October 16 in Brussels.

European leaders were surprised by Zelensky’s recent interview, in which he criticized the US diesel deal with Russia, called the termination of American intelligence support dangerous, and stated Trump’s favoritism towards autocrats and the super-rich.

According to the FT’s sources, during the closed meeting, EU leaders intend to delicately but firmly urge Zelensky to exercise restraint. One official noted that even true things do not always need to be said out loud.

Tensions between Kyiv and Washington have increased following Trump’s agreement with Putin on Russian diesel fuel, American pressure on Ukraine over strikes on refineries, and US proposals to unfreeze Russian state assets.

Despite concerns over Zelensky’s statements, European leaders plan to reaffirm their support for Ukraine. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed that assistance to Kyiv remains necessary, as it is not only about Ukraine’s territorial integrity, but also about the security of Europe.

EU foreign policy chief Kaia Kallas said that pressure should be put on the aggressor, not the victim of war.

As a reminder, Zelenskyy previously announced the resumption of strikes on Russian refineries after a three-day pause at the request of the United States. The president explained this by the fact that Russia has not stopped shelling Ukrainian energy.

Also follow “Pryamim” on Facebook , X , Telegram , and Instagram .