Tensions between the United States and Ukraine have escalated, with US President Donald Trump expressing frustration towards Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky. According to a report by the New York Times, Trump views Zelensky as a “bad guy” who is pushing the world closer to nuclear conflict. The president’s advisers have described him as “exasperated” with both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, but with a special animosity reserved for the Ukrainian leader.
The report highlights a notable disparity in Trump’s stance towards Zelensky and Putin. Despite acknowledging that Ukraine’s desire to continue fighting is “understandable,” Trump’s criticism of Zelensky has been consistently harsher than his words towards Putin. This disparity is reflected in Trump’s decision to refrain from imposing new sanctions on Moscow, citing a “very, very good relationship” with the Russian president.
A recent phone conversation between Trump and Putin sheds light on the ongoing tensions. The 75-minute call, which took place on Wednesday, saw the two leaders discussing Ukraine’s attack on Russian airbases. Putin reportedly informed Trump of Ukraine’s efforts to derail peace talks, including “terrorist” attacks on civilian targets. These incidents, which occurred in the regions of Bryansk and Kursk, resulted in the deaths of seven people and injured over 100.
In response to the call, Zelensky took to Telegram to issue a statement, warning that a weak response to Putin’s threats would be perceived as a sign of the world’s willingness to turn a blind eye to his actions. Zelensky emphasized that if the international community fails to stop Putin, they will share responsibility for his actions.
This is not the first time Trump and Zelensky have engaged in a public spat. In late February, the two leaders met at the White House, where Trump accused Zelensky of “gambling with World War III” and being “disrespectful” and ungrateful for American support. The ongoing tension between the US and Ukraine has significant implications for global peace and security, with the world watching closely as the situation continues to unfold.
