Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pushed back against former US President Donald Trump’s claim that India and China are “primary funders” of Russia’s war in Ukraine, asserting instead that India is “mostly” aligned with Ukraine.

In a recent interview with Fox News, Zelensky acknowledged that there are challenges , particularly with India’s energy dealings with Russia , but expressed confidence that India would eventually shift its stance. He urged deeper collaboration with European powers to solidify ties with India and prevent any distancing in support for Ukraine.

Zelensky contrasted India’s position with that of China, saying that China’s support for Russia is more entrenched and less likely to change: “With China it’s more difficult because … today, it’s not in their interests not to support Russia.”

His remarks followed Trump’s speech at the United Nations, where the former US president criticized both India and China for continuing to import Russian oil, framing such actions as enabling Moscow’s military efforts.

While Zelensky’s response attempts to draw a distinction between India and China in the conflict, it underscores the diplomatic tightrope New Delhi faces — balancing energy security, geopolitical ties, and global expectations amid one of the most consequential wars of our time.