(EDITORIAL from The Korea Times on Oct. 15)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy finds himself facing a credibility crisis, with strained relations with key international partners complicating Ukraine's situation. The Ukrainian leader's disclosure of transferring two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea has sparked a diplomatic dispute with Seoul. This incident, coupled with Zelenskyy's confrontation with US President Donald Trump over Russian diesel supplies, highlights the importance of credibility in wartime diplomacy.

Zelenskyy's announcement at the United Nations General Assembly on September 23 led to differing accounts between Ukraine and South Korea regarding a confidentiality agreement surrounding the POW transfer. While South Korea insists on an understanding of secrecy, Ukraine denies the existence of such an agreement. This disagreement raises questions about how either country can trust the other to respect the delicate nature of the humanitarian and security operation.

The controversy extends beyond the transfer itself. South Korea has demanded an explanation and apology from Ukraine, recalling its ambassador to Kyiv and continuing its push for resolution. Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, has stated that the dispute is resolved, though Seoul remains unconvinced. For Zelenskyy, the stakes go beyond bilateral relations, as South Korea provides substantial humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and has its own interests in monitoring the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

Meanwhile, Zelenskyy's confrontation with Trump adds another layer to his credibility problem. The US president's announcement of a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to release Russian diesel supplies into global markets has been criticized by Zelenskyy as a gift to Putin, potentially enabling Moscow to sustain its war effort.

Critics in Washington have also questioned whether the move undermines sanctions and alleviates fuel price pressures. In response, Trump accused Zelenskyy of missing opportunities to end the war and demanded a new Ukrainian leader.

While Trump's demand for a new Ukrainian president is not a solution to the conflict, it highlights the political complexities at play. Russia's invasion remains the root cause, and any lasting peace must address Ukraine's security concerns rather than merely rewarding Moscow's willingness to negotiate. Furthermore, Ukraine's dependency on external assistance means that Washington's commitment to support Ukraine cannot be taken for granted.

To regain credibility, Zelenskyy must provide a transparent account of the POW transfer dispute, acknowledge any failure to uphold the parties' understanding, and work towards repairing relations with South Korea. He must also engage with Washington pragmatically without sacrificing Ukraine's essential security interests. As the lesson from Seoul and Washington shows, international solidarity cannot rely solely on sympathy.

Zelenskyy must demonstrate that his government remains accountable, open to serious negotiations, and capable of maintaining the trust of its partners.