In Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed a desire for more honesty from Donald Trump’s team during a meeting with Keith Kellogg, the US special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. This meeting comes as US policy shifts from isolating Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump has controversially claimed Ukraine is to blame for the ongoing war, which is nearing its fourth anniversary, provoking irritation among Ukrainian officials seeking global support against Russia’s aggression.
While Trump suggested Ukraine should hold elections postponed due to martial law, Zelenskyy countered this by highlighting that a significant portion of Ukraine’s military aid comes from sources other than the US. He also implied that Trump lives in a realm of misinformation regarding the situation in Ukraine.
Amidst these developments, French President Emmanuel Macron is set to convene a videoconference with over 15 European leaders to discuss peace and security in Ukraine, reflecting a sense of urgency among European allies who feel sidelined. As Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv aimed to facilitate substantial discussions, Zelenskyy cancelled an intended trip to Saudi Arabia, indicating his commitment to shaping Ukraine’s involvement in dialogues concerning its future. American officials have hinted that Ukraine’s NATO aspirations might be hindered, while Zelenskyy insists that securing US commitments is crucial for any settlement with Russia.