Thu Feb 20 17:37:56 UTC 2025: ## EU Rejects Trump’s Zelenskyy Criticism, Demands Role in Ukraine Peace Talks
**Brussels, Belgium –** The European Union (EU) strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s characterization of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a “dictator,” asserting that Mr. Zelenskyy was democratically elected and that Ukraine is a democracy. The statement, released on February 20, 2025, follows escalating tensions after Washington initiated peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the three-year war in Ukraine.
EU spokesperson Stefan de Keersmaecker emphasized that any peace solution must include both Ukraine and the EU. He stated that “There can be no solution for Ukraine without the involvement of Ukraine, nor without the involvement of the European Union,” highlighting the EU’s view that Ukraine’s security is intrinsically linked to its own.
Trump’s attacks on Zelenskyy have raised concerns in Europe about a potential abandonment of Ukraine to secure a swift deal with Moscow. The EU’s firm response underscores its commitment to supporting Ukraine and its insistence on a significant role in any future peace negotiations. The statement follows reports of landmark talks in Riyadh where Russia and the U.S. agreed to work towards ending the conflict.
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