FEBRUARY 19 – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the U.S. administration to acknowledge the truth regarding the war in Ukraine after President Donald Trump suggested that Ukraine was responsible for the conflict. Zelensky made his remarks during a press conference in Kyiv, where he expressed concern about what he described as misinformation surrounding the war.
Zelensky’s Response to Trump’s Remarks
Speaking from his presidential office, Zelensky directly addressed Trump’s recent comments, in which the U.S. leader implied that Ukraine had initiated the war. Zelensky firmly rejected this claim, stating that the war was the result of Russia’s unprovoked invasion in February 2022.
“I hope the Trump team will be more truthful,” Zelensky stated. “It is important to base discussions on facts, not disinformation.”
He went on to say that Trump and his advisors seemed to be operating in a “circle of disinformation,” where misleading narratives about Ukraine were being promoted. Zelensky emphasized that such misinformation played into the hands of Russia, which has long sought to shift blame for its aggression onto Ukraine.
Peace Talks Without Ukraine’s Involvement
Zelensky’s remarks came after reports emerged that the Trump administration had initiated discussions with Russia regarding a potential ceasefire. These talks, notably, did not include Ukraine, raising concerns about the implications for the country’s sovereignty and security.
Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine would not accept any peace agreement negotiated without its participation. “We cannot be expected to accept decisions made in our absence,” he stated. “Our country and our people are the ones suffering from this war, and our voice must be heard in any discussions about peace.”
The exclusion of Ukraine from negotiations has been a source of frustration for Kyiv, particularly as it continues to rely on Western support to defend against Russian advances.
Disputing Claims About Popularity and Elections
Trump also made claims about Zelensky’s approval ratings, alleging that the Ukrainian leader had only four percent support among his people. Zelensky dismissed this as false, pointing to independent surveys that showed strong backing from the Ukrainian population.
“The numbers being cited are not accurate,” Zelensky stated. “We have seen polls that show continued strong support from the Ukrainian people in our fight for freedom.”
Additionally, Trump suggested that Ukraine should hold elections before moving forward with further negotiations. However, Zelensky clarified that elections had been suspended under martial law due to the ongoing conflict. Conducting elections in a time of war, he argued, would not be feasible or fair to the Ukrainian people.
Russia’s Reaction to U.S. Policy Changes
The shift in the U.S. approach to Ukraine under the Trump administration has been met with approval from Moscow. Russian officials have expressed satisfaction with the changing tone of U.S.-Ukraine relations, particularly the suggestion that Ukraine should take responsibility for the war.
Zelensky warned that such rhetoric could embolden Russian forces and further complicate efforts to secure a just and lasting peace. “It is clear that Moscow is pleased with recent statements,” he said. “This only serves to strengthen their position and prolong the suffering of our people.”
Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
As discussions over diplomacy continue, the reality on the ground in Ukraine remains dire. Russian forces have intensified their attacks on Ukrainian cities, with recent missile strikes targeting key infrastructure.
In the southern city of Odesa, a series of drone strikes left several civilians injured, including a child. The attacks also damaged energy facilities, leaving over 160,000 people without heating amid freezing winter temperatures.
Zelensky condemned the continued bombardment, highlighting the severe impact on civilians. “Russia’s goal is to break our spirit by targeting our homes, our infrastructure, and our way of life,” he said.
Europe’s Response and Sanctions
Meanwhile, European leaders have expressed concern over the U.S.’s shifting stance on Ukraine. The European Union has moved forward with a new round of sanctions aimed at restricting Russia’s ability to finance its war efforts. The latest measures target Russian industries, including metals and shipping, in an effort to weaken the country’s economic power.
French and German officials have criticized recent statements from Washington, emphasizing that Ukraine was the victim of Russian aggression and should not be blamed for the war. French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to hold further discussions with European allies on how to reinforce support for Ukraine.
Conclusion
Zelensky’s strong response to Trump’s remarks reflects Ukraine’s ongoing struggle to maintain international support as it fights for its sovereignty. While Kyiv continues to rely on allies for military and economic assistance, the shifting tone from Washington raises concerns about future commitments.
For Ukraine, the priority remains clear: securing its territorial integrity and ensuring that any diplomatic discussions about the war include its leadership. As the conflict nears its third year, the need for truth and accountability remains more crucial than ever.