Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has questioned US commitment to its European allies, saying Donald Trump’s focus on domestic issues as his first act in office suggests he won’t prioritize Europe’s future. Zelenskyy warned that Europe risks being left out of peace negotiations with Russia if the US pursues talks alone.
Zelenskyy criticized Trump’s executive orders, which paused a TikTok ban and declared a national border emergency, as evidence of his administration’s lack of interest in Europe. The Ukrainian leader urged European officials and business to take action, saying the region must establish itself as a strong global player if it wants to remain relevant.
Zelenskyy’s comments come ahead of the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, which has sparked war fatigue among Ukrainians. Trump has vowed to end the war within 24 hours, but critics fear an unjust peace deal could allow Russia to regroup and re-arm.
European officials have expressed concerns that Ukraine could be pushed into a deal that would force it to relinquish territory currently occupied by Russia. Zelenskyy warned that Europe might not even have a seat at the table when the war ends, and that China’s influence on Russia is a major concern.
Trump has already hinted at meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but his relationship with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is more complex. While Trump has praised Zelenskyy as “very honorable,” he has also called him “the greatest salesman.”
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/21/ukraines-zelenskyy-questions-the-us-commitment-to-europes-future.html