Donald Trump said Friday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not essential in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.
“I don’t think he’s very important to be in meetings,” Trump told Fox News, criticizing Zelensky’s role and Ukraine’s negotiation tactics.
Speaking to U.S. governors, Trump claimed Ukraine lacks leverage, adding, “They don’t have any cards, but they play it tough.”
Kyiv and European leaders voiced frustration after Trump initiated talks with Moscow, excluding Ukraine from recent Saudi-hosted ceasefire discussions.
Tensions grew when Trump called Zelensky a “dictator” and falsely claimed Ukraine started the war, deepening diplomatic rifts.
