Washington: US President Donald Trump has signaled increasing impatience with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, warning that America’s support for Kyiv might not last indefinitely. Trump criticized Zelenskyy’s recent remarks about the war with Russia, calling them "the worst statement that could have been made" and suggesting that the US would not tolerate his stance for much longer.
The comments come after a tense White House meeting last week, where Trump and Zelenskyy clashed over the direction of the conflict. Zelenskyy had asserted that peace talks remained distant and that robust security guarantees were essential to ending the war—remarks that provoked Trump’s frustration.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said Zelenskyy should show more gratitude for US assistance, emphasizing that Washington has supported Ukraine "through thick and thin." Despite the strained exchanges, Trump indicated that discussions on a minerals deal between the US and Ukraine were still on the table.
While he refused to confirm whether military aid to Ukraine could be cut, Trump left open the possibility of policy shifts, stating, "We'll see what happens. A lot of things are happening as we speak."
Meanwhile, European leaders are considering a proposed one-month truce to ease hostilities, particularly in air, sea, and energy infrastructure sectors. France and Britain are working on a plan to secure any potential ceasefire, possibly with military reinforcements. However, Zelenskyy stressed that negotiations on ending the war remain in their early stages, a position that further irritated Trump.
In Moscow, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov blamed Zelenskyy for the recent White House confrontation, accusing him of lacking diplomatic skills and being unwilling to pursue peace. Trump himself has previously criticized Zelenskyy, calling him a "dictator" for delaying elections under martial law.
Tensions over Ukraine are also shifting dynamics in Europe, with French President Emmanuel Macron suggesting increased defense spending to compensate for changing US priorities. Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, following discussions with Trump, insisted that the US remained a reliable ally, despite its evolving stance on Ukraine.
Despite the disputes, Zelenskyy expressed hope for continued US support and remained open to cooperation, particularly regarding the minerals deal that Trump is eager to secure. "I am ready to engage in any constructive format in relations with the US," the Ukrainian leader stated.
