US President Donald Trump spoke to journalists on Tuesday after the conclusion of high-level talks between the US and Russia to resolve the Ukraine conflict in Riyadh. He expressed optimism that a peace solution could be mediated and sharply criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
More Hope for Peace
Trump stated that he is “much more hopeful” that a lasting peace can be achieved and emphasized that his main goal is to “save lives.”
Funding for Ukraine
Furthermore, the US President called on NATO member states and Kiev to ensure that aid to Ukraine is not wasted. “They must pay. They must find out where the money goes” he said.
This apparent reference was to an interview Zelenskyy gave to podcaster Lex Fridman last month, in which the Ukrainian President said that Kiev had not received even half of the funds promised by Washington.
About the Negotiations
Trump argued that Zelenskyy and other Ukrainian representatives cannot complain that they were not invited to the talks in Riyadh. He also expressed “great disappointment” with Kiev.
“Today, I heard: ‘We were not invited.’ Well, you’ve been there for three years – you should have ended it. You should have never started it. You could have reached an agreement” Trump said.
Criticism of Zelenskyy
Additionally, Trump described the leader in Ukraine as extremely unpopular in his own country. “The leader of Ukraine – I only say it reluctantly – has a 4% approval rating” Trump said.
“If they want a seat at the negotiating table, one could say: Shouldn’t the Ukrainian people ask: ‘How long has it been since we had an election?'” Trump inquired.
According to the New York Times, Zelenskyy’s popularity sank from 90% at the beginning of the conflict to about 50% in 2022. His five-year term ended in May 2024, but he has refused to hold new elections, citing martial law.
About European Peacekeeping Forces
Trump expressed a positive view of a possible European peacekeeping force in Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire between Moscow and Kiev. “If they want to, that’s great. I am absolutely for it. I wouldn’t have anything against it” he said. At the same time, he made it clear that US troops would not participate in a peace mission.