Trump Labels Zelenskyy a 'Dictator,' Signals Shift in U.S. Ukraine Policy

The U.S. President's remarks draw criticism from allies, delight Moscow, and raise concerns about future Western support for Ukraine.

Donald Trump has called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a 'dictator,' accusing him of lacking democratic legitimacy due to suspended elections under martial law.
Trump's comments align with Russian narratives, sparking alarm among European allies and signaling a significant shift in U.S. policy toward the Ukraine conflict.
The U.S. has excluded Ukraine from recent negotiations with Russia, with Trump suggesting territorial concessions and ruling out Ukraine's NATO membership as 'unrealistic.'
Zelenskyy has refrained from escalating tensions, emphasizing Ukraine's commitment to constructive relations with the U.S. despite the growing rift.
European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron, have reaffirmed their support for Ukraine and criticized Trump's statements as dangerous and unfounded.