US President Donald Trump expressed respect for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of their meeting, downplaying earlier remarks in which he referred to Zelensky as a “dictator.” Trump indicated optimism about their discussions, highlighting the bravery of Ukrainian forces who have received significant US support. Despite past criticisms of US aid to Ukraine, he shifted his tone and emphasized the importance of a forthcoming deal concerning mining rights, which would grant the US a share of Ukraine’s mineral wealth. Trump also addressed his recent controversial comments about Zelensky, expressing disbelief over his own statements.
Washington:
On Thursday, US President Donald Trump expressed admiration for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of his upcoming visit, downplaying a prior comment where he referred to him as a “dictator.”
“I believe we are going to have a very productive meeting tomorrow morning. We will get along quite well,” Trump stated.
“I hold him in high regard,” Trump remarked about Zelensky during a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Though Trump has frequently criticized the significant military and other aid provided to Ukraine by Washington, his tone shifted as the two countries are expected to finalize an agreement concerning mining rights.
The agreement, advocated by Trump as a means of compensation for the US support, would grant the United States a stake in a large portion of Ukraine’s mineral resources.
“We have supplied him with a considerable amount of equipment and funding, but they have demonstrated great valor,” Trump commented.
“This equipment needs to be utilized, and they have indeed been very courageous in that regard.”
Earlier in February, Trump surprised many European allies by having a discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin about Ukraine.
Following critical comments from Zelensky, Trump had referred to the democratically-elected Ukrainian leader as a “dictator.”
“Did I really say that? I can hardly believe I said that,” Trump replied when questioned by reporters about his earlier remark made this month on his Truth Social platform.
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