Zelensky Says Iran Is Top U.S. Priority, Acknowledges Ukraine 'in the Queue' and Offers Direct Talks With Putin

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Iran is the top issue for the United States and Ukraine ranks behind it. He made the statement during a Wednesday press conference in Kyiv with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. “Iran is the No.

1 issue for the United States, and only after that comes Ukraine,” Zelensky said. ” Rutte arrived in Ukraine on an unannounced visit one day after a Russian drone and missile attack killed at least 13 people and injured more than 100. Zelensky said the strongest option for talks would include American and European representatives at the negotiating table.

He also said he is ready for direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. “We support any format, and I am ready for direct negotiations with Putin to end this war, rather than waiting in line for everyone to end all the conflicts in the world, and then it comes to us,” Zelensky said.

Rutte warned young Russians considering recruitment bonuses that they face poor training, substandard equipment, and a high risk of death or injury.

“You are being sold a raw deal,” Rutte said. “Men like you will join the fight. You won’t be trained. The equipment they will provide you is substandard. There is a very high chance that you will die or will be wounded while you are out there.

U.S. House of Representatives are forcing a vote on a bill that would authorize more than $1 billion in defense aid and up to $8 billion in direct loans to Ukraine. The bill faces an uncertain future in the Senate.