Zelensky says US actions pressure Ukraine toward capitulation to Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said recent US actions appear aimed at pressuring Kyiv to capitulate to Russia, though he hopes relations will improve after the November 3 congressional midterm elections. In an October 18 Bloomberg interview, Zelensky cited Starlink restrictions and delays in Patriot missile deliveries as examples of pressure, while noting he does not believe Washington intentionally seeks this outcome. He expects calmer ties with Washington after the elections. Zelensky also said he may meet Trump envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff this week. The Starlink limits, effective since October 14, cap drone terminal speeds at 160 km/h, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio denied White House involvement.