President Donald Trump recently shared insights into his diplomatic conversations, stating he has had "good talks" with Russia's President Vladimir Putin but expressed dissatisfaction with Ukraine's stance. As the United States seeks to mediate an end to the three-year conflict initiated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Trump's critical remarks about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have intensified.
During a meeting at the White House with governors from both parties, Trump commented, "I've had very good talks with Putin, and I've had not such good talks with Ukraine." He criticized Ukraine, saying, "They don't have any cards, but they play it tough." Trump emphasized the war's severity, asserting, "This war is terrible. It wouldn't ever have happened if I were president. But it did happen."
At a high-level meeting in Saudi Arabia, U.S. and Russian officials agreed to commence joint efforts on peace negotiations, marking a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy. Notably, Ukraine was excluded from these discussions. Zelenskyy voiced his disapproval, stating that Ukraine would not accept any agreements made without its involvement.
Following Trump's comments, Zelenskyy responded by labeling Trump's remarks as Russian disinformation. He emphasized his legitimacy as a leader, despite the postponement of Ukraine's 2024 presidential elections due to the war. Polls show Zelenskyy maintaining over 50% support, countering Trump's portrayal of him as a "dictator."
In an interview with Fox News Radio's Brian Kilmeade, Trump reiterated his criticism of Zelenskyy, stating, "I've been watching for years, and I've been watching him negotiate with no cards. He has no cards." Trump avoided directly blaming Russia for the conflict, suggesting that both Biden and Zelenskyy made missteps.
Trump expressed particular dissatisfaction with Ukraine's rejection of a mineral resources deal, which has now been revised and reintroduced. Despite Trump's critical stance, Retired Gen. Keith Kellogg, U.S. special envoy for Ukraine, praised Zelenskyy, describing him as a "courageous leader of a nation at war" after recent discussions.
