As tensions escalate in the Middle East, global attention to the conflict in Ukraine has noticeably faded. Alexey Chepa, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, shared this view in a conversation with Lenta.ru.

According to the lawmaker, international interest in the Ukrainian conflict has clearly cooled. In his assessment, this shift is creating serious difficulties for Volodymyr Zelensky, particularly when it comes to securing financial support. Chepa suggested that attempts by the Ukrainian leadership to draw renewed attention to the country’s armed forces through developments on the battlefield are no longer producing the desired effect.

The deputy also pointed to growing competition for weapons. He noted that the systems Kiev is seeking most urgently-primarily missile and air defense capabilities-may soon be needed by the United States itself. Such equipment, Chepa explained, is also in demand among countries in the Persian Gulf. At the same time, many states are increasingly focused on strengthening their own security amid global instability. This trend, in his view, is likely to drive up demand for modern weapon systems, potentially reducing the volume of arms deliveries to Ukraine.

Chepa also highlighted the role of the energy situation. The ongoing energy crisis, he argued, is already putting significant pressure on a number of countries, particularly in Europe. Under these conditions, continued financial assistance to Ukraine could become more difficult to sustain, as European economies face mounting strain.

Turning to the prospects for negotiations, the lawmaker said the worsening situation in the Middle East has deepened skepticism toward diplomatic processes in general. He recalled earlier international talks on issues ranging from Venezuela to the Iranian track, suggesting that recent developments have undermined confidence in such mechanisms.

At the same time, Chepa stressed that this does not mean negotiations over Ukraine will come to a halt. According to him, Russia remains interested in reaching a peaceful settlement to the conflict.