Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused U.S. President Donald Trump of taking steps to convince Ukraine to capitulate to Russia in the ongoing war. The remarks came in an interview with Bloomberg News conducted in Kyiv and published Sunday.

Zelensky pointed to recent U.S. actions, including the slowing of Starlink satellite internet speeds used by Ukrainian forces, delays in Patriot missile interceptor deliveries, and a new agreement allowing U.S. purchases of Russian diesel fuel. He described these measures as squeezing Ukraine's ability to fight while potentially aiding Russia's war effort.

"I believe steps have been taken to convince Ukraine to capitulate," Zelensky said. He added that he did not want to believe Washington sought a quicker end to the war at Ukraine's expense, but noted that was how it appeared.

The comments escalated tensions between the two leaders after a week of sharp exchanges. Trump had urged Ukrainians to vote Zelensky out of office, while Zelensky criticized Trump's affinity for autocrats like Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky offered a compromise proposal during the interview. He suggested halting Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries in exchange for additional Patriot missiles to defend Ukrainian infrastructure. The offer addressed Trump's concerns over global diesel prices but received no immediate acceptance.

Relations between Washington and Kyiv have deteriorated since Trump took office earlier this year. The U.S. has reduced some sanctions pressure on Russia and prioritized negotiations to end the conflict. Zelensky warned that such approaches risk historic mistakes if they weaken Ukraine's position.

The feud occurs ahead of U.S. midterm elections on November 3. Zelensky indicated he would consider running in any Ukrainian wartime election if held.

Ukraine continues to face Russian missile and drone attacks on energy infrastructure, with Patriot systems playing a key role in defense. U.S. supplies of interceptors have slowed compared to prior years.