Trump Calls Zelensky a ‘Dictator,’ Deepening U.S.-Ukraine Rift

Trump Calls Zelensky a ‘Dictator’ as U.S.-Ukraine Tensions Grow

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, referring to him as a “dictator” during a speech at a Saudi-backed investment conference in Florida. His remarks have widened the growing divide between the two leaders and sparked strong reactions from European officials.

Trump’s comments were a response to Zelensky’s claim that the former U.S. president was “living in a disinformation space” influenced by Moscow. The Ukrainian leader had also expressed frustration over being excluded from recent U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about Washington’s commitment to supporting Kyiv.

Trump’s Accusations Against Zelensky

During his speech, Trump accused Zelensky of manipulating U.S. President Joe Biden and suggested that Ukraine’s leader had refused to hold elections, despite the country being under martial law since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. He also claimed that Zelensky’s government had backed out of an agreement on Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals, though no such deal has been officially confirmed.

Trump’s remarks have fueled controversy, with critics arguing they play into Russian narratives about Ukraine’s leadership. The former president later reinforced his stance on his Truth Social platform, blaming Ukraine for the ongoing war and claiming, without evidence, that Zelensky was “low in the real Ukrainian polls.” Independent polling, however, shows that 57% of Ukrainians trust their president.

European Leaders Condemn Trump’s Remarks

Trump’s statement drew swift condemnation from European officials. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed the “dictator” claim as false and dangerous, asserting that Zelensky had legitimate democratic authority. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer backed Zelensky, pointing out that suspending elections during wartime was a necessity, much like the UK had done during World War II. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also criticized Trump’s comments, with Baerbock calling them “absurd.”

Moscow Reacts as EU Increases Pressure on Russia

Trump’s criticism of Ukraine was welcomed in Moscow. Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk commented that “Russia is popping champagne” over the growing tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin also took notice, expressing openness to meeting with Trump, adding further complexity to the geopolitical landscape.

Meanwhile, the European Union has introduced new sanctions against Russia, targeting aluminum, oil transport vessels, and additional banks. The move highlights Europe’s continued commitment to pressuring Moscow, despite Trump’s insistence that the war is primarily Europe’s responsibility.

Zelensky Stands Firm

Despite Trump’s attacks, Zelensky remains steadfast in his stance against Russian aggression. He rejected Trump’s alleged demand for access to Ukraine’s rare minerals, stating that no security guarantees were offered in return. As tensions between the two leaders escalate, the debate over Ukraine’s future and its relationship with the U.S. is becoming increasingly complex.

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