Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concern over former President Donald Trump's recent summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating it provided Putin with what he desired. "It's a pity that Ukraine was not there, because I think that President Trump gave Putin what he wanted," Zelenskyy said in an interview with ABC News. He noted that Putin was eager to meet with the U.S. president, which he believes was a significant moment for the Russian leader.

Zelenskyy emphasized that while Putin is not interested in meeting him, he is keen to engage with the U.S. president to showcase their interaction. His comments came shortly before Russia launched a significant drone and missile attack on Ukraine, resulting in at least eight civilian deaths and 59 injuries. The Ukrainian Air Force described the assault as unprecedented.

As the conflict continues, Trump has been advocating for a meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin, aiming to resolve the ongoing war. However, a two-week deadline set by Trump for peace talks has passed without progress. During the interview, conducted at a damaged American-owned factory in Ukraine, Zelenskyy stressed the need for increased pressure from American and European allies on Russia.

"We all understand that we need additional pressure on Putin. We need pressure from the United States," he stated. Zelenskyy acknowledged the support from European partners but criticized some for continuing to purchase Russian oil and gas, calling it unfair. He argued that halting energy purchases from Russia is crucial to weakening Putin's military capabilities.

Regarding a potential meeting with Putin, Zelenskyy revealed that the Russian president had proposed terms he found unacceptable. He dismissed the idea of traveling to Moscow while Ukraine is under attack, stating, "I can't go to this capital of this terrorist. It's understandable. And he understands it."

Zelenskyy remains open to a meeting with Putin but insists it cannot take place on Russian soil. "I'm ready for any kind of meeting -- but not in Russia," he said. He also highlighted the importance of security guarantees from American and European allies, emphasizing that any such guarantees must be based on Ukraine's military strength.

When asked about what victory looks like for Ukraine, Zelenskyy defined it as the survival of the nation. He stated, "Putin's goal is to occupy Ukraine. For him, this is victory. And until he can do it, the victory is on our side. So that's why for us to survive is a victory. Because we are surviving with our identity, with our country, with our independence."