Former President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week while defending his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. U.S.-Russia diplomatic efforts took center stage as officials from both nations began joint peace negotiations in Saudi Arabia – a move Zelenskyy condemned as undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty.
During a Friday governors’ meeting, Trump claimed
I’ve had very good talks with Putin,while dismissing Ukraine’s leadership as negotiating with no cards.His remarks followed a controversial mineral resources proposal rejected by Kyiv, which Trump framed as evidence of Ukraine’s unwillingness to compromise.
The White House faces mounting scrutiny over its stance toward Russia’s 2022 invasion. When pressed whether Trump views Putin as a dictator, National Security Adviser Michael Waltz repeatedly sidestepped the question. Zelenskyy countered Trump’s claims about his legitimacy, citing postponed wartime elections permitted under Ukraine’s constitution and polling above 50% approval.
Key developments:
- U.S.-Russia negotiations proceed without Ukrainian representation
- Trump labels Zelenskyy a dictatorover delayed elections
- Special Envoy Keith Kellogg praises Zelenskyy as courageouspost-meeting
Trump doubled down during a Fox News Radio interview:
Every time I say it’s not Russia’s fault, I get slammed... Zelenskyy said the wrong things.Analysts warn the Saudi-mediated talks signal a seismic policy shift, prioritizing expedited conflict resolution over Ukrainian participation. As tensions mount, Zelenskyy vows to reject any agreement not directly negotiated by Kyiv.