Following high-level US-Russia discussions in Riyadh aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict, President Donald Trump addressed reporters. He expressed increased optimism regarding a peace agreement, while also criticizing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Trump stated he felt significantly more confident in achieving lasting peace, prioritizing the saving of lives as his immediate objective.
Regarding financial aid to Ukraine
Trump emphasized the need for accountability in the use of aid provided to Ukraine by NATO countries and the US. He demanded a thorough accounting of funds, citing concerns about potential misuse. He referenced President Zelensky’s admission that Ukraine hadn’t received half of the promised funds, questioning their allocation.
Concerning the negotiations
Trump expressed his disappointment with Ukraine’s lack of inclusion in the Riyadh talks, arguing that their prolonged involvement in the conflict should have led to a resolution earlier.
On President Zelensky
Trump asserted that Zelensky’s domestic approval rating was extremely low, citing a figure of 4%. He suggested that the Ukrainian people might demand new elections given the situation before Ukraine could secure a seat at the negotiating table.
The New York Times reported Zelensky’s approval rating has dropped from approximately 90% at the conflict’s outset to around 50%, and that his refusal to call for new elections, due to martial law, has extended beyond his presidential term’s expiration in May 2024.
On peacekeeping forces
Trump indicated his support for a potential EU peacekeeping mission in Ukraine following a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, but reiterated that US troops would not be involved.