U.S. President Donald Trump reignited controversy by blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the devastating human toll of the Russia-Ukraine war. Speaking during a meeting with El Salvador’s president, Trump claimed that “millions” had died due to decisions made by Zelenskyy, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and U.S. President Joe Biden.
This marks a sharp escalation in Trump’s criticism of Ukraine’s leadership amid ongoing tensions between Kyiv and Moscow. His comments follow a heated February exchange with Zelenskyy in Washington, which revealed deep divisions over the conflict and its origins.
Despite widespread international support for Ukraine, Trump’s remarks suggest a starkly different narrative.
Sharing Blame: Trump’s Controversial Stance
During his remarks, Trump ranked Putin as the primary figure responsible for the war. Yet, he controversially placed Biden second and Zelenskyy third. He criticized the Ukrainian leader’s continued requests for military support, dismissing them as desperate.
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“He’s always looking to purchase missiles,” Trump said, adding, “When you start a war, you better know you can win it.”
This framing casts Ukraine as the aggressor rather than a nation defending its sovereignty. It echoes Russian talking points and contradicts global consensus on the conflict’s origins.
Zelenskyy Faces Renewed Criticism Amid U.S. Tensions
Tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy have intensified since February, when Trump began hinting at negotiations with Russia. He previously labeled Zelenskyy a “dictator without elections,” prompting backlash.
In an effort to restore dialogue, Zelenskyy sent a delegation to Washington last week to discuss economic cooperation, particularly a proposed deal granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s natural resources.
Still, Trump has maintained a hard line. While insisting he wants to end the war, he offers little clarity on how peace would be achieved or how Ukraine’s sovereignty would be protected.
Rising Casualties Underscore the Human Cost
Trump’s remarks come just after a deadly missile strike in Sumy, Ukraine, killed at least 35 civilians. Russia claimed it targeted Ukrainian commanders, while Kyiv denounced the strike as a war crime.
Zelenskyy, in a CBS interview, urged Trump to visit Ukraine to witness the destruction firsthand. “Only then will he understand,” Zelenskyy said.
Despite the tragedy, Trump described the Sumy attack as a “mistake” without elaborating. His comments have stirred debate over moral leadership and geopolitical accountability.
