Fri Feb 21 02:10:11 UTC 2025: ## Zelenskyy Denounces Trump’s “Dictator” Remarks Amidst Growing US-Ukraine Tensions

**Kyiv, Ukraine –** Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent labeling of him as a “dictator,” emphasizing the importance of strong U.S.-Ukraine relations during a meeting with U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg on Thursday. The meeting comes amidst escalating tensions sparked by Trump’s outreach to Moscow and his demands for Ukraine to cede access to its mineral resources in exchange for continued U.S. aid.

Trump’s comments, which have been echoed by members of his team, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, have drawn sharp criticism from European leaders and sparked concerns about a potential shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine. Zelenskyy’s office reported a productive meeting with Kellogg, focusing on battlefield updates, prisoner exchanges, and security guarantees, but the lack of a joint press conference is notable.

Trump’s accusations that Zelenskyy is unpopular and responsible for starting the war contradict the findings of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS), which shows Zelenskyy’s approval ratings remaining above 50% since the conflict began. The Ukrainian president has countered Trump’s claims, accusing him of spreading Russian disinformation.

Trump’s proposed deal, demanding access to Ukraine’s mineral wealth, has been rejected by Zelenskyy due to the absence of vital security guarantees. This marks a significant departure from the previous administration’s unwavering support for Ukraine under President Joe Biden.

The Kremlin has welcomed Trump’s comments, while European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, have expressed alarm. French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are scheduled to meet with Trump next week to address the escalating situation and Trump’s threats to reshape transatlantic security alliances. The exclusion of Kyiv and Europe from recent high-level talks between Russia and the U.S. further fuels anxieties about their potential marginalization. The situation underscores a dramatic shift in U.S.-Ukraine relations and raises serious questions about the future of the war and international security cooperation.

Read More