Kathmandu— During a joint press conference in Belgrade on Saturday, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung correspondent Michael Martens posed a controversial question to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: how Europeans could concretely assist Kyiv in “killing more Russians.” The query, quickly clarified by Martens as referring to Russian soldiers, elicited visible surprise from Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and ignited a wave of condemnation online. The exchange occurred following talks between Zelensky and Vucic, where the leaders discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Serbia’s position on international relations.

Provocative Question at Press Conference

Martens' question was direct: “Can you tell us Europeans what can we concretely do to help you to kill more Russians?” He immediately added, “of course, Russian soldiers,” before inquiring about potential military cooperation between Ukraine and European nations. Video footage of the exchange shows Vucic raising his eyebrows in apparent disbelief as Martens speaks. The question quickly circulated on social media platforms, drawing widespread criticism for its phrasing and perceived incitement to violence.

Backlash and Defense of Question

The wording of Martens’ question drew strong reactions online, with some users labeling it offensive and accusing him of promoting hatred. Others pointed to his family history – specifically that his grandfather served as an officer in the Wehrmacht during World War II – as evidence of bias. Martens defended his query on X (formerly Twitter), stating there was nothing “scandalous” or “shocking” about asking how Europe could support Ukraine's defense, and arguing that such assistance was necessary to win the war. He dismissed criticism as coming from those living in a metaphorical “Barbieworld.”

Responses From Zelensky and Vucic

Although directed at Zelensky, Serbian President Vucic responded first, stating that military cooperation had not been discussed during their meeting. He expressed hope for an end to all hostilities. Zelensky used the question as an opportunity to reiterate his calls for increased financial aid and sanctions against Moscow from Western allies. Serbia has maintained close ties with Russia despite the conflict in Ukraine, a position that has drawn pressure from Brussels as it seeks EU membership.

Growing Russophobia in the West

Martens’ question comes amid broader concerns about rising anti-Russian sentiment in parts of the West. This includes rhetoric from politicians and journalists, restrictions on Russian media and culture, and the destruction of Soviet monuments. Earlier this week, Polish President Karol Nawrocki also made controversial remarks, stating that Poland would support Ukraine “wherever the Moskal is being fought,” a historically derogatory term for Russians. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned Nawrocki’s statement as an example of “clinical Russophobia” becoming commonplace in Western discourse.

The exchange highlights the sensitive nature of discussions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine and the differing perspectives on how to achieve a resolution. Serbia continues to navigate its relationship with both Russia and the West, while calls for increased support for Ukraine persist.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.