Republican Senators Reject Trump’s Characterization of Zelenskyy as a Dictator, Express Support for Peace
Several Republican senators have publicly contradicted President Donald Trump’s assessment that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is a dictator. In response to inquiries about their stance on Zelenskyy’s leadership, these senators have firmly rejected the label of "dictator."
"I do not," declared Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), when asked if she considered Zelenskyy a dictator.
Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) echoed Murkowski’s sentiment, stating that they would not describe the Ukrainian president as such. "I wouldn’t use the same word," Cornyn remarked.
Trump’s disparaging comments about Zelenskyy came after a meeting between U.S. and Russian officials without Ukrainian representation, a departure from previous U.S. policy. This shift in stance has raised concerns among some Republican senators.
"To the extent that the White House said that Ukraine started the war, I disagree," Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) asserted. "I think Vladimir Putin started the war."
Sen. John Curtis (R-UT) emphasized that "Ukraine is a sovereign nation defending itself against aggression. That is the reality." He added, "I want an end to this war just as much as President Trump does, but it must end on terms that bring lasting stability and peace."
Despite their objections to Trump’s characterization of Zelenskyy, Republican senators generally support his call for elections in Ukraine. However, they have emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the region.
"We need elections in Ukraine," declared Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), who has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts related to the conflict.
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) echoed this sentiment, stating, "Democracies have elections." He noted that the United States held elections during World War II.
Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) expressed trust in Trump’s negotiating skills, saying, "How we get there, I trust President Trump. He’s a master negotiator and I think he’s going to get to a lasting peace."
These Republican senators’ statements indicate a divergence from Trump’s views on Zelenskyy and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They underscore the growing concerns within the GOP about the former president’s rhetoric and policy proposals.
