Tensions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and former U.S. President Donald Trump escalated Wednesday after Zelenskyy accused Trump of being influenced by Russian “disinformation,” while Trump labeled Zelenskyy “a dictator without elections.” Their remarks are likely to further complicate efforts to end the ongoing war.
Zelenskyy urged Trump’s team to be “more truthful” in response to recent statements from Trump, who falsely suggested that Kyiv was responsible for the conflict, now approaching its fourth year.
The exchange marked a stark shift in U.S.-Ukraine relations, which had remained strong under President Joe Biden. During Biden’s tenure, the U.S. supplied Kyiv with vital military aid and diplomatic support. However, the Trump administration is now taking a different approach, seeking engagement with Russia and exploring a potential peace deal. Senior officials from both nations met Tuesday to discuss improving relations, ending the war, and possibly arranging a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
