Zelenskiy Rebukes Trump Over Ukraine War Comments Amid Shifting U.S. Policy

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy challenges Trump’s claim that Ukraine provoked Russia’s invasion, warning against disinformation as U.S. policy on the war shifts.

Zelenskiy Pushes Back Against Trump’s Ukraine War Remarks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy forcefully countered former U.S. President Donald Trump’s assertion that Ukraine bore responsibility for Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion. Speaking on Wednesday, Zelenskiy cautioned that Trump appeared to be caught in a Russian “disinformation bubble” and urged his team to seek a clearer understanding of the conflict.

Zelenskiy’s comments came just ahead of his discussions with Trump’s Ukraine envoy, marking a critical moment in U.S.-Ukraine relations as the war approaches its third anniversary. His response followed Trump’s remarks suggesting that Ukraine “should never have started” the conflict, a statement that drew sharp criticism from Kyiv.

Misinformation and Approval Ratings: Zelenskiy Fires Back

Addressing Trump’s claim that his approval rating in Ukraine had dropped to a mere 4%, Zelenskiy dismissed the assertion as a product of Russian propaganda. According to a February poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology, 57% of Ukrainians still trust Zelenskiy’s leadership—far from the figure Trump referenced.

“We have proof that these numbers are being circulated between America and Russia,” Zelenskiy stated in a televised interview. “It’s unfortunate that President Trump operates within this disinformation space.”

Trump’s Foreign Policy Shift on Russia and Ukraine

Less than a month into his presidency, Trump has upended U.S. policy toward Ukraine and Russia, signaling a stark departure from Washington’s previous stance of isolating Moscow over the war. Following a direct call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and talks between senior officials from both nations, Trump indicated potential diplomatic realignment.

While Trump hinted at a possible meeting with Putin this month, the Kremlin suggested it might take longer to arrange. Meanwhile, Russia’s sovereign wealth fund signaled optimism, predicting that several U.S. companies might resume business in Russia as early as the second quarter.

Putin also lauded ongoing negotiations in Saudi Arabia regarding the war’s resolution, describing them as productive. However, these discussions notably excluded Ukraine and European nations—an exclusion that Trump has justified by insisting that Europe should take greater responsibility for securing a ceasefire.

Ukraine’s Offer for U.S. Investment in Exchange for Security Guarantees

In a bid to secure long-term American support, Zelenskiy has floated the idea of granting U.S. companies rights to extract valuable minerals in Ukraine in exchange for security assurances. However, Trump’s administration has not yet signaled interest in the proposal.

During a press conference, Zelenskiy outlined the extent of U.S. financial aid so far, noting that Ukraine has received $67 billion in military assistance and $31.5 billion in budgetary support. In contrast, he dismissed Trump’s reported demand for $500 billion in mineral rights as unrealistic.

“That is not a serious conversation,” Zelenskiy said. “Ukraine is not for sale.”

U.S. Envoy Visits Kyiv as War Enters Critical Phase

Amid these geopolitical tensions, Trump’s Ukraine envoy, Keith Kellogg, arrived in Kyiv for high-level discussions. Addressing the media, Kellogg acknowledged the importance of security guarantees for Ukraine but emphasized that his visit was primarily a listening tour.

“We understand the need for security assurances,” he remarked. “A key part of our mission is to engage and assess firsthand.”

EU Pushes Ahead with New Sanctions Against Russia

While Trump’s policy shift has created uncertainty, Europe has continued its efforts to pressure Russia. On Wednesday, European Union envoys agreed on a 16th round of sanctions targeting Moscow, including restrictions on aluminum imports and vessels suspected of transporting sanctioned Russian oil.

French President Emmanuel Macron voiced frustration with Trump’s stance, stating that he found no logic in blaming Ukraine for Russia’s invasion. Macron was scheduled to meet with leaders from Germany, Italy, Canada, and other European allies to coordinate their approach to Ukraine, following an earlier summit with British and EU officials.

Despite some internal disagreements, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stressed the importance of unity within the EU, emphasizing that continued support for Ukraine remains essential.

“We may not be in complete agreement on every measure,” Kristersson admitted, “but we have accomplished a great deal together, and we must maintain a steady course.”

The War’s Human Toll: Russia Steps Up Attacks

As diplomatic wrangling continues, the situation on the ground remains dire. Russia launched a fresh wave of drone attacks on the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa on Wednesday, injuring four civilians, including a child. Zelenskiy reported that the assault targeted critical energy infrastructure, leaving 160,000 residents without heating amid freezing temperatures.

Moscow maintains that its strikes on Ukraine’s energy grid are aimed at weakening military capabilities, though the ongoing bombardment has killed thousands of civilians since the war began.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has escalated counterattacks on Russian energy assets, including a strike on a major oil pipeline supplying Kazakhstan and global markets. Russian officials reported a 30-40% reduction in oil flows due to the attack, prompting Putin to accuse Europe of orchestrating the sabotage.

Ukraine’s Front Line: Civilians and Soldiers Brace for More Battles

In Novopavlivka, a frontline village where guided bombs have scarred once-quiet streets, Ukrainian forces are bracing for intensified Russian advances. Armored vehicles move strategically through the area as military helicopters buzz overhead, underscoring the volatility of the conflict.

Former village leader Mykola Havrylov expressed frustration over what he perceives as insufficient Western support.

“I don’t understand it, and I think I’m not the only one,” he said. “We need more action, not just promises.”

As the war drags on, Ukraine faces mounting challenges—not just from Russian aggression but from shifting global political dynamics. The coming months will test Kyiv’s resilience as it navigates both military and diplomatic battlegrounds.

The Uncertain Road Ahead

As the conflict nears its third year, Ukraine faces increasing pressure on multiple fronts. While European allies tighten sanctions against Russia, Trump’s policy shifts have introduced new uncertainties. Amid this complex geopolitical landscape, Zelenskiy continues to rally for Western support, countering misinformation while defending Ukraine’s sovereignty. With shifting alliances and intensifying warfare, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges—and the global response will play a decisive role in Ukraine’s future.

Source:  (Reuters)

(Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is subject to change. Readers are encouraged to consult official sources for the latest updates.)

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