Trump had some shocking words.
President Donald Trump recently took aim at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, criticizing his leadership and claiming that Zelenskyy’s time in office is coming to an end unless he acts swiftly. On social media, Trump called Zelenskyy a “dictator without elections” and expressed concerns that Ukraine might soon cease to exist under his rule. Trump also declared that only his administration could effectively negotiate peace with Russia, a task that he believes President Joe Biden and European leaders have failed to handle.
Trump emphasized his deep concern for Ukraine but was clear in his assessment that Zelenskyy’s handling of the war had been disastrous. “Millions have died unnecessarily, and Ukraine is in ruins,” Trump stated, reiterating that Zelenskyy had pushed the U.S. into an unwinnable war. The former president argued that Zelenskyy convinced the U.S. to send a staggering $350 billion into the conflict, far outpacing Europe’s financial contribution, while the American people would see no return on that investment.
Trump continued to criticize the lack of accountability in Ukraine, pointing out that Zelenskyy himself had admitted that much of the money sent by the U.S. was “missing.” He noted the absence of elections in Ukraine, accusing Zelenskyy of avoiding elections to maintain his grip on power while his approval rating sank. Trump suggested that Zelenskyy’s failure to hold elections could further destabilize Ukraine if peace negotiations continue.
Vice President JD Vance also echoed Trump’s concerns, pointing out that publicly attacking Trump would not change his mind. Meanwhile, Russia has made it clear that any peace agreement must include the holding of elections in Ukraine, which have been delayed due to the ongoing war and martial law. With Zelenskyy’s approval plummeting, his future as president could be at risk if peace is achieved and elections are held.
Trump’s former national security envoy, Keith Kellogg, also visited Kyiv this week, signaling continued U.S. involvement in peace talks. Ukrainian officials are now calling for U.S. security guarantees as part of any peace agreement, ensuring that Russia cannot simply invade again after the war ends.
As the U.S. continues to weigh its role in Ukraine, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce made it clear that Trump remains focused on stopping the conflict. She highlighted his willingness to engage with world leaders, including a recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in hopes of securing peace. Bruce emphasized that one call or meeting was not enough to secure lasting peace, but Trump’s leadership could make all the difference in bringing Ukraine and Russia to the negotiating table.