Thu Feb 27 22:34:31 UTC 2025: ## Trump Walks Back “Dictator” Remark, Praises Zelensky Ahead of Ukraine Meeting

**London, UK** – Former US President Donald Trump expressed newfound respect for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday, ahead of a Friday meeting expected to yield a significant mining rights deal. Trump’s comments mark a sharp reversal from earlier this month when he controversially labeled Zelensky a “dictator” on his Truth Social platform.

At a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump stated, “I think we’re going to have a very good meeting tomorrow morning. We’re going to get along really well. I have a lot of respect for him.” He acknowledged the substantial US military and financial aid provided to Ukraine, adding, “We’ve given him a lot of equipment and a lot of money, but they have fought very bravely.”

The upcoming meeting is expected to culminate in a deal granting the United States a share of Ukraine’s mineral wealth, a proposal championed by Trump as compensation for US support. This follows Trump’s controversial February call with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a conversation that drew criticism from numerous European allies. When confronted about his previous “dictator” remark, Trump appeared surprised, saying, “Did I say that? I can’t believe I said that.”

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