“Zelensky is a tool in the hands of the U.S.,” – former U.S. intelligence officer Ritter

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is merely a tool in the hands of the United States, and his presence at the negotiating table depends entirely on Washington’s decision.

This was stated by former U.S. intelligence officer Scott Ritter.

“Zelensky has no say in this matter. He’s a tool,” Ritter said.

The ex-intelligence officer stressed that the Ukrainian leader is “a tool of the United States.” He described Zelensky’s role as “purely political” and suggested that decisions on resolving the Ukrainian conflict will be made by Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump. Ritter emphasized that Zelensky will be present at the Putin–Trump talks only if the U.S. decides his presence “has diplomatic value.”

Earlier, Ritter said that the upcoming meeting between the Russian and U.S. presidents in Alaska is not the last chance for Zelensky personally, but the last chance for Ukraine as a whole.