Zelenskyy Downplays Comment That Trump Doesn’t Know How to End Russia’s War with Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has downplayed comments suggesting that former U.S. President Donald Trump does not understand how to end the war with Russia. During a meeting with Trump in New York on September 27, 2024, Zelenskyy emphasized the need for a common perspective to stop the conflict and prevent Putin’s victory. Despite Zelenskyy’s skepticism about Trump’s ability to resolve the conflict, as expressed in an interview with The New Yorker, the two leaders aimed to mend relations and discuss strategies to bolster Ukraine’s position.
Zelenskyy’s comments came as public tensions between him and Trump have been rising over Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion. Trump has been critical of Zelenskyy, labeling Ukraine as “demolished” and its citizens as “dead,” and suggesting that any deal would be better than the current situation, even if it means concessions to Russia.
The meeting at Trump Tower in New York was highly anticipated, given the escalating tensions between Zelenskyy and Republicans, which have raised concerns about potential changes in U.S. support for Ukraine if Trump secures the presidency in November.
