Donald Trump has publicly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, asserting that effective leadership in both the United States and Ukraine could have averted the ongoing conflict with Russia. The former president’s comments follow Zelenskyy’s recent address to the Ukrainian people regarding a proposed peace deal with Russia, which has sparked a heated exchange between the leaders.
On November 23, 2023, Trump took to his platform, Truth Social, to express his views on the situation. He stated that if there had been “strong and proper” leadership in both nations, Vladimir Putin would not have invaded Ukraine. In his post, Trump remarked, “The War between Russia and Ukraine is a violent and terrible one that, with strong and proper U.S. and Ukrainian LEADERSHIP, would have NEVER HAPPENED.” He added that the conflict began prior to his potential return to office and has since escalated under the current administration, led by President Joe Biden.
Trump’s criticism extended to his belief that the 2020 U.S. presidential election was “rigged and stolen,” claiming that if he had remained in power, the war would not have occurred. “Putin would never have attacked! It was only when he saw Sleepy Joe in action that he said, ‘Now is my chance!'” Trump declared, framing the conflict as a consequence of Biden’s leadership style.
In a passionate statement, Trump lamented the loss of life resulting from the war, stating, “I INHERITED A WAR THAT SHOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPENED, A WAR THAT IS A LOSER FOR EVERYONE.” He also accused Ukraine’s leadership of showing “zero gratitude” for U.S. efforts in the conflict, while emphasizing that Europe continues to purchase oil from Russia.
The former president highlighted the ongoing U.S. support for Ukraine, noting the substantial military aid provided, which he characterized as “free, free, free.” He concluded by invoking the human cost of the conflict, stating, “GOD BLESS ALL THE LIVES THAT HAVE BEEN LOST IN THE HUMAN CATASTROPHE!”
The exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy illustrates the ongoing tensions surrounding the conflict in Ukraine and the differing perspectives on leadership and responsibility. As the situation continues to evolve, both leaders are likely to remain at the forefront of discussions regarding the war’s future and the potential for peace.
This story is developing, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
