In a recent interview with MS Now, former U.S. President Donald Trump accused Ukraine and its President Volodymyr Zelensky of exploiting the issue of U.S. assistance in the conflict with Iran for publicity purposes. Trump stated, “Ukraine has done nothing. Everything Zelensky talks about regarding Ukraine’s alleged contributions is purely for political and PR reasons.”
Trump also expressed frustration with NATO allies in Europe, labeling them as “paper tigers” for their reluctance to support the U.S. in its efforts against Iran. In response, Zelensky reminded that Ukraine had proposed a “Drone Deal” to the U.S. back in 2025, emphasizing that the agreement included not just interceptor drones but also provisions for maritime and long-range drones, along with knowledge exchange and training.
“When President Trump is ready, I will certainly be ready. Our negotiating team will discuss this matter at a meeting in the U.S.,” Zelensky remarked.
Negotiations between Ukrainian and U.S. representatives are scheduled to take place in Miami on March 21.
Farewell to Patriarch Filaret
On March 20, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church mourned the passing of its honorary Patriarch Filaret at the age of 98. Filaret played a significant role in unifying the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. His body was brought to St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, where a farewell ceremony is currently underway.
Clerics led by His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphanius formed a corridor to receive Filaret’s body, followed by a memorial service attended by concerned citizens of Kyiv. The farewell will continue until the morning of March 22, with access possibly restricted at times for valid reasons, but generally open to the public. Traditional readings from the Gospel and memorial prayers will be held over the casket.
A Divine Liturgy and Panikhida are scheduled for the morning of March 21, with the farewell continuing throughout the day. On Sunday, March 22, a Divine Liturgy will commence at 8:30 AM, led by Metropolitan Epiphanius, followed by the funeral service.
Due to preparations for the burial, St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral will be closed to visitors on Saturday, March 21, reopening for services on Sunday morning.
Merkel Criticizes Orbán Over Ukraine Aid
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has publicly criticized Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for blocking a €90 billion loan to Ukraine. Merz made these comments following a European Council meeting on March 19, noting that EU countries, including Hungary, had agreed to the loan in December 2025.
“Orbán violated this consensus, undermining one of the fundamental principles of our European cooperation,” Merz stated.
He emphasized that such actions hinder the European Union’s ability to act effectively and cohesively. The European Council has called for the swift adoption of the 20th sanctions package against Russia and anticipates the first payment to Ukraine from the €90 billion loan by early April.
U.S. Treasury Allows Sale of Stalled Iranian Oil
The U.S. Treasury has issued a limited short-term permit for the sale of approximately 140 million barrels of Iranian oil currently stranded on tankers. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced this on social media on March 21.
Bessent noted that this oil is being accumulated by China at low prices, and the temporary permit aims to redirect these volumes to global markets. This move is a response to Iranian attacks on global energy infrastructure.
“We will use Iranian barrels against Tehran to keep prices low while we continue Operation Epic Fury,” he added.
This permit applies only to oil already in transit, excluding new purchases or extraction. Bessent also mentioned that the Trump administration is working to release an additional 440 million barrels of oil into the global market to mitigate the impact of Iranian actions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Germany Eases Arms Export Regulations
The German government has introduced a general license allowing companies to expedite the export of arms for air and maritime defense to Ukraine and Gulf countries. This license, effective until September 15, 2026, eliminates the need for individual permits.
The new license covers weapons for air and maritime defense, including those for mine protection and clearance. It permits both direct exports and the movement of arms within the EU before exporting to recipient countries. Exporters can utilize the license without prior application but must report monthly on deliveries.
German Economy Minister Katharina Reiche stated that Iran’s indiscriminate attacks on Gulf nations have created a pressing need for air defense systems. She also noted that Ukraine’s demand for military support, particularly in air defense, remains high.
“With this new license, we are adapting our arms export control procedures to meet new requirements and ensuring quick and non-bureaucratic deliveries,” Reiche said, emphasizing solidarity with partner countries.
Former President Trump criticized Ukraine's alleged role in the Iran conflict, while significant developments unfolded regarding military support and diplomatic negotiations. The passing of Patriarch Filaret and Germany's easing of arms export regulations also marked the news cycle.