World reacts after Zelenskyy, Trump exchange heated words over Ukraine war |
In the wake of the heated confrontation between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington, global leaders have rallied to express their support for Ukraine, while some echoed Trump’s concerns.
United States:
Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, advised Zelenskyy to focus on securing a minerals deal over security guarantees or a ceasefire. He criticised the meeting as an “utter disaster” and suggested that Zelenskyy should apologize to Trump or seek new leadership for Ukraine.
On the other hand, top Democratic leaders condemned Trump’s actions. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Trump of doing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s bidding. Jeffries called the exchange “appalling” and insisted that the US should stand firmly with Ukraine until victory is achieved.
Russia:
Russian officials responded with praise for Trump’s criticism of Zelenskyy. Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Head of Russia’s Security Council, posted on Telegram, describing Trump’s reprimand as a “strong slap on the wrist” for Zelenskyy. He further called for an end to military aid to Ukraine, citing that it was prolonging the conflict.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also backed Trump, calling Zelenskyy a “scumbag” and appreciating Trump’s restraint.
European Union:
European leaders were quick to express their support for Zelenskyy, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen offering solidarity, praising Zelenskyy’s dignity and courage.
Foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that the free world needs a new leader, echoing sentiments that Europe should take a more active role in supporting Ukraine. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and European Council President António Costa both lauded Zelenskyy for his bravery.
France:
French President Emmanuel Macron stood firmly by Ukraine, reiterating that Russia is the aggressor in the ongoing conflict. Macron underscored the importance of continued support for Ukraine from the US, European countries, and others, and praised the Ukrainian people’s fight for their dignity and independence.
Germany:
Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz reassured Zelenskyy, saying that Ukraine could rely on Germany and Europe. Scholz emphasized that the citizens of Ukraine are the ones who seek peace the most and reiterated that a just and lasting peace is essential for Ukraine.
German lawmakers expressed their dismay at Trump’s actions, with prominent figures from Scholz’s party stating that Trump’s actions were unacceptable.
United Kingdom:
Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with both Trump and Zelenskyy following the public fallout. Starmer reaffirmed his unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that he was committed to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.
Ireland:
Prime Minister Micheál Martin expressed Ireland’s full support for Ukraine, asserting that Ukraine was not to blame for the war and that the country must be supported in its struggle for a just peace.
Canada:
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s support for Ukraine, stating that Ukrainians were fighting for democracy, freedom, and sovereignty, values that resonate globally. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly also emphasized the need for NATO allies to unite and support Ukraine amid the ongoing crisis.
Norway:
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre condemned the clash, stating that Ukraine’s security and future were also in the U.S.’s interest. He distanced himself from Trump’s comments, calling them deeply unreasonable.
Denmark:
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen described the exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy as a “setback” for Ukraine and a “punch in the gut” for the country. Rasmussen emphasized that Europe should stand united in supporting Ukraine.
Sweden:
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson reaffirmed his country’s commitment to Ukraine, stressing that Ukraine’s fight for freedom was not just for the country’s sovereignty but for the entire continent’s security.
Finland:
Prime Minister Petteri Orpo pledged Finland’s continued unwavering support for Ukraine, stressing the importance of a just and lasting peace.
Poland:
Prime Minister Donald Tusk showed support for Ukraine, writing on social media: “Dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone.”
Other European Countries:
Leaders from other European nations, including Portugal, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, and Croatia, expressed their support for Ukraine, condemning Russia’s aggression and reiterating their solidarity with Zelenskyy.
