Trump Blasts Zelenskyy as Dictator, Calls for Elections in Ukraine
Kyiv, Ukraine – Former US President Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, labeling him a "dictator without elections" and criticizing his handling of the war with Russia.
Accusations of Dictatorship and Misappropriation
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump accused Zelenskyy of being a "modestly successful comedian" who has "managed to talk the United States of America into spending $350 Billion Dollars, to go into a War that couldn’t be won, that never had to start."
Trump also alleged that Zelenskyy has refused to hold elections, is "very low in Ukrainian Polls," and has overseen the "MISSING" of half of the money sent to Ukraine by the US.
Criticism of US Involvement in the Conflict
Trump expressed frustration with the US’s substantial financial support for Ukraine, totaling $200 billion more than Europe’s contributions. He questioned the need for US involvement and suggested that President Joe Biden should have pursued equalization with Europe.
Furthermore, Trump criticized Zelenskyy for allegedly playing Biden "like a fiddle" and for not prioritizing peace negotiations.
Zelenskyy’s Response
Zelenskyy responded to Trump’s accusations during a press conference in Kyiv, expressing regret that Trump "lives in this disinformation space."
Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s gratitude for US support and dismissed Trump’s criticisms as attempts to undermine their efforts at peace.
US and Russia Push for Elections in Ukraine
Meanwhile, both the US and Russia have expressed their agreement that Ukraine must hold elections to determine its leadership. Russia has insisted on elections as a condition for a peace agreement, while the US has proposed a three-stage plan involving a ceasefire, elections, and the signing of a peace deal.
Zelenskyy’s term in office expired last May, with elections originally scheduled for April 2024. However, presidential aides have indicated that elections will not be held until six months after the end of martial law, which is currently in effect.
US Envoy Arrives in Kyiv
Amid the ongoing peace talks, Trump envoy Keith Kellog visited Kyiv to hold discussions with Zelenskyy on Wednesday. Ukrainian officials have stressed the need for US security guarantees as part of any peace agreement.
State Department Statement
State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce issued a statement following a meeting between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Riyadh.
Bruce affirmed that the US desires peace and is utilizing its global influence to foster cooperation. She highlighted Trump’s efforts and expressed optimism that a durable peace can be achieved through continued action.
Implications for Zelenskyy’s Future
With Zelenskyy’s popularity declining due to the war, his political future could be at risk should elections be held after a peace settlement is reached. Some advocates argue that post-war elections would provide a more stable outcome, while others fear that they could create an opportunity for Russian interference.
The ongoing negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, along with the US’s involvement, will continue to shape the future of Ukraine and its leadership.
