US President Donald Trump has sparked a wave of support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, labeling him a “dictator” and questioning his legitimacy after his mandate expired last year. However, European leaders have come to Zelenskyy’s defense, calling him a “fairly elected leader” and emphasizing Ukraine’s democracy.
The European Commission has stated that Ukraine is a democracy and that Zelenskyy was elected in free and fair elections. Deputy spokesperson Stefan de Keersmaecker said ending the war without involving Ukraine is not possible, as its security is tied to the EU’s security. Other European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have also expressed support for Zelenskyy.
In a move to pressure Russia, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised Ukraine’s leadership during the war and called on members of the alliance to increase their defense spending to reach the 2% target. Trump had previously criticized Ukraine for not holding new elections after his mandate expired, despite being under martial law since the Russian invasion in February 2022.
The US delegation has canceled a press conference with Zelenskyy’s envoy and the Ukrainian president, citing no reason for the cancellation. The move has sparked concern among Ukraine’s supporters in Europe, who are eager to see Trump’s criticism translated into action to support the embattled country.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/02/20/tusk-calls-on-eu-to-confiscate-russias-frozen-assets-to-provide-ukraine-with-financial-ass