Zelensky: Trump lives “in disinformation space”

During the initial peace talks between the United States and Russia regarding Ukraine, Donald Trump made controversial remarks by blaming Zelensky for the conflict. He referred to him as “extremely incompetent” and stated that he “should never have started this war.”  

Addressing Zelensky, who has been excluded from the negotiations between Washington and Moscow, Trump accused him of being in office for three years without bringing an end to the conflict. He insisted by stating that Zelensky “should have put an end to it,” “should never have started it,” and “should have reached an agreement” with Russia.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Trump’s claims, stating that the latter “lives in a disinformation space” influenced by Russian propaganda. Zelensky reaffirmed that Russia is the sole instigator of the invasion and that Ukraine is simply defending its sovereignty.

Zelensky recently emphasized that Ukraine is “not for sale,” rejecting any idea of territorial compromise or excessive concessions in exchange for international aid. This statement comes after the Trump administration proposed a controversial agreement regarding 50% of Ukraine’s mineral resources.

Recent remarks by Trump have exacerbated tensions between Washington and Kyiv, especially since Ukraine and its European allies were excluded from recent discussions between the United States and Russia in Saudi Arabia. This exclusion was perceived as an affront by the Ukrainian government.

At the same time, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Trump’s position, stating that discussions with the United States strengthen mutual trust. Putin also indicated that Russia is ready to negotiate, which contrasts with Trump’s accusations against Ukraine.

Trump also suggested that Ukraine should hold new elections before concluding a ceasefire, implying that this could help resolve the conflict. This proposal was poorly received by Zelensky, who reminded that the current martial law makes it impossible to hold elections in the current context. 

Trump’s statements regarding a potential Ukrainian responsibility in the conflict have been widely criticized by the international community, which sees them as a rewriting of facts that favors the Russian narrative. Many observers believe that these remarks could weaken Ukraine’s position on the diplomatic stage.

Zelensky urged the United States and its allies to maintain their support for Ukraine, emphasizing that any division within the Western alliance could be exploited by Russia to strengthen its grip on occupied territories. He stressed the importance of a unified position in the face of Russian aggression.

The current situation places Ukraine and Europe in a critical period, where decisions made by Western allies could determine the outcome of the conflict. Recent developments indicate a possible realignment of international positions, which could have major consequences for regional security.

In the face of these challenges, Ukraine continues to advocate for increased assistance and recognition of its sovereignty, while denouncing attempts at historical revisionism that seek to hold it responsible for a war initiated by Russia. International solidarity remains a key element in countering the Kremlin’s expansionist ambitions.