Overview

• Trump referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a 'dictator' and falsely claimed Ukraine started the war, echoing Russian narratives.
• The U.S.-Russia peace talks in Riyadh excluded Ukraine, drawing criticism from Zelensky and European leaders for sidelining Kyiv in negotiations about its own future.
• Trump suggested Ukraine hold elections despite logistical and legal challenges posed by martial law, a stance aligned with Russian demands.
• European leaders, including Germany’s Olaf Scholz and the UK’s Keir Starmer, reaffirmed Zelensky’s democratic legitimacy and criticized Trump’s comments.
• The Trump administration’s approach to Ukraine, including potential concessions to Russia, raises concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO and transatlantic alliances.