Zelenskyy Accuses Trump of Living in Russian ‘Disinformation Space’/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Donald Trump of living in a “Russian-made disinformation space” after Trump blamed Kyiv for the war. Zelenskyy urged Trump’s team to be more truthful, challenging claims about U.S. aid and Ukrainian elections. As U.S.-Russia talks continue, European leaders express concern over being sidelined.
Zelenskyy Accuses Trump of Disinformation – Quick Looks:
- Zelenskyy claims Trump is influenced by Russian disinformation on the Ukraine war.
- Trump suggests Ukraine is responsible for starting the war, drawing Kyiv’s ire.
- Ukraine pushes back against claims about U.S. aid and election delays.
- French President Macron hosts European leaders to discuss peace efforts.
- Ukraine’s battlefield struggles intensify as Russia gains ground.
- Keith Kellogg visits Kyiv to discuss future U.S.-Ukraine relations.
Zelenskyy Accuses Trump of Living in Russian ‘Disinformation Space’
Deep Look:
Zelenskyy Rebukes Trump for Spreading Russian Disinformation on Ukraine Conflict
KYIV, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday, accusing him of residing in a “Russian-made disinformation space.” The remarks follow Trump’s controversial statements blaming Ukraine for the ongoing war and questioning Kyiv’s leadership decisions.
Speaking at a news conference in Kyiv, Zelenskyy rejected Trump’s claims, particularly regarding Ukraine’s responsibility for the war and the state of U.S. aid.
“We understand this disinformation comes from Russia,” Zelenskyy said. “I would like Trump’s team to be more truthful.”
Trump, during a media briefing at his Mar-a-Lago residence, suggested that Ukraine “should have never started” the conflict and “could have made a deal” to avoid war. His comments come just days before the war enters its fourth year, with Russian forces steadily advancing along the 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front line.
Tensions Heighten Over International Diplomacy
While Trump’s remarks stirred controversy, French President Emmanuel Macron convened a videoconference with leaders from over 15 European nations to bolster support for Ukraine and discuss regional security. European leaders, having met in Paris earlier this week, voiced frustration over being sidelined in U.S.-Russia diplomatic discussions held in Saudi Arabia.
Keith Kellogg, U.S. special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, arrived in Kyiv on Wednesday to meet with Zelenskyy and Ukrainian military commanders. “This visit is an opportunity for substantial talks,” Kellogg stated, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence. He pledged to relay Kyiv’s concerns to Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Disputed Claims Over Aid and Elections
Trump’s assertion that Zelenskyy’s approval rating is at 4% and that 90% of Ukraine’s aid comes from the U.S. was swiftly contested. Zelenskyy clarified that roughly 34% of Ukraine’s weaponry is domestically produced, with European nations contributing about 30% and the U.S. providing up to 40%.
On the subject of elections, Trump urged Ukraine to proceed with voting despite martial law, imposed due to the war. Zelenskyy defended the decision to postpone elections, citing constitutional provisions during wartime.
Shifting Dynamics and Battlefield Realities
Ukraine faces mounting challenges on the battlefield, with Russian troops making incremental advances in the east. Despite heavy resistance, Ukrainian forces have been gradually pushed back, intensifying calls for continued international support.
Zelenskyy’s planned trip to Saudi Arabia was canceled, a move analysts interpret as a protest against U.S.-Russia negotiations that exclude Ukrainian representation. American officials, meanwhile, signaled that Ukraine’s hopes for NATO membership remain uncertain, though discussions on U.S. security guarantees continue.
“We recognize the necessity of security assurances,” Kellogg said upon arriving in Kyiv. “It’s crucial to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty is respected.”
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