Zelensky as played down concerns over comments by Trump that he understood why Russia does not want Ukraine to join the NATO defense alliance.

"I would very much like President Trump's unpredictability to be directed primarily toward the Russian Federation," he said.

A Ukrainian serviceman of the 118th Separate Mechanized Brigade walks at a position with an anti-drone rifle, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in a front line in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine December 3,

President Volodymyr Zelensky commented on Donald Trump's statement in which Trump expressed he "could understand the feelings" of Russia and Putin regarding the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO. As reported by Interfax-Ukraine,

His statement echoes controversy caused by Trump's suggestion that Russia’s invasion was provoked by Ukraine’s aspirations to join NATO. US President-elect has recently stated that he "understands" Russia’s concerns over Ukraine’s NATO bid and blamed the Biden administration for escalating the conflict.

US President-elect Donald Trump stuns Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky with a sympathetic view on Russia. Trump said he understands why Russia is opposing NATO membershio to Ukraine. Watch. #russia #donaldtrump #putin #zelensky #nato #ukrainewar 'I Understand Putin': Trump Fumes At NATO,

During a Jan. 7 press conference, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump blamed President Joe Biden for provoking Russia’s full-scale invasion by supporting Ukraine’s NATO membership aspirations. Trump argued that Ukraine’s potential NATO membership has long been a major concern for Moscow.