The dramatic fallout from the Oval Office meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sparked a wave of global reactions. While European allies have reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, some right-wing leaders and Russian officials have praised Trump’s tough stance.
The highly anticipated meeting, expected to focus on US aid and peace negotiations, quickly turned tense. Trump accused Zelensky of being ungrateful and unwilling to negotiate with Russia. The encounter has deepened divisions among world leaders over the ongoing war in Ukraine.
European leaders rally behind Ukraine
Several European leaders were quick to criticise Trump’s approach and reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised that Russia remains the aggressor:
“We were right to support Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago, and we must continue. Ukraine is fighting for the dignity, security, and independence of Europe.”
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre condemned Trump’s remarks, particularly his claim that Zelensky was “gambling with World War III.” Støre called the statement “deeply unreasonable” and stressed that Ukraine’s security remains vital for both the U.S. and Europe.
Other leaders expressed solidarity on social media. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reassured Ukraine, “You are not alone,” while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez echoed, “Ukraine, Spain stands with you.”
In Germany, Johann Wadephul, deputy leader of the conservative party in parliament, described the meeting as “shocking,” adding: “How can you stab the president of an invaded country in the back like this? Free Europe will not betray Ukraine!”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Zelensky’s resilience, stating:
“Your dignity reflects the bravery of the Ukrainian people. Stay strong, stay courageous, and never lose hope. You are never alone. We remain committed to a just and lasting peace.”
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna directly blamed Russia: “The only barrier to peace is Putin’s decision to continue his war of aggression. If Russia stops fighting, the war ends. If Ukraine stops fighting, Ukraine ceases to exist.”
Russia and right-wing leaders applaud Trump
While most Western leaders condemned Trump’s remarks, Russian officials and some right-wing politicians backed his stance.
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev mocked Zelensky, calling him a “cocaine clown” and an “ungrateful pig” who “finally got a strong slap in the Oval Office.” Medvedev urged the US to cut off all military aid to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, leader of the far-right League party, praised Trump on X, writing: “Aim for PEACE, stop this war! Come on @realDonaldTrump.”
The sharp contrast in global responses highlights the deepening rift over the war in Ukraine, with Trump’s latest comments adding fuel to an already contentious international debate.
(With inputs from Reuters)