a morning of 'humor' in high places;

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Western nations, including the U.S., for maintaining intelligence-level contacts with Russia during the ongoing conflict.
• Zelensky, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, argued that diplomatic isolation should be used as a tool against Moscow.
• He emphasized Ukraine’s refusal to negotiate with Russia unless it is from a position of strength, rejecting any compromise on territorial disputes.
• Zelensky’s remarks highlight his insistence on prioritizing Ukraine’s interests, even as Western nations weigh their own diplomatic strategies.

Zelensky wants total allegiance from U.S.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday, sharply criticized Western nations for maintaining intelligence-level contacts with Russia throughout the three-year conflict between Ukraine and Moscow. Zelensky’s remarks, delivered with a tone of frustration and insistence, underscored his demand for absolute diplomatic isolation of Russia and his belief that Ukraine’s priorities should dictate U.S. foreign policy. The Ukrainian leader’s refusal to entertain negotiations with Russia, coupled with his criticism of Western intelligence exchanges, reflects his uncompromising stance and his desire for unwavering international support. This approach, however, raises questions about the sustainability of such a strategy and its implications for global diplomacy..........more......