Donald Trump has declared that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is “doing pretty well” in the war against Russia, a rare positive assessment from the former US president who has often been critical of US aid to Ukraine.
Trump’s Statement and Context
Speaking to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump said: “He’s doing pretty well against Russia. I have to say that. He’s a tough cookie.” The comment marks a departure from his previous claims that he could end the war in 24 hours and his criticism of US military assistance to Kyiv.
Trump’s remarks come amid a renewed Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine, where Moscow’s forces have made incremental gains. According to the Institute for the Study of War, Russian troops have advanced near the city of Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region.
Zelenskyy’s Response
Zelenskyy, in his nightly address, acknowledged Trump’s statement but emphasized the need for continued support. “We appreciate any recognition of our struggle, but words must be backed by action. Our soldiers need weapons, not compliments,” he said.
The Ukrainian leader also reiterated his call for more air defense systems to counter Russian missile and drone attacks. Over the past week, Russia launched 300 missiles and 1,500 drones against Ukrainian infrastructure, according to the Ukrainian air force.
International Reactions
European leaders reacted cautiously to Trump’s comments. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said: “It is important that all allies remain united in supporting Ukraine. The war is far from over.”
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Trump’s statement as “irrelevant” and reiterated that Russia’s military goals in Ukraine remain unchanged.
Military Situation on the Ground
On the battlefield, Ukrainian forces are facing intense pressure in the Kharkiv region, where Russia opened a new front last month. The Ukrainian general staff reported 120 combat engagements in the past 24 hours, with heavy fighting near Vovchansk and Kupiansk.
Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, stated that Russia plans to capture the entire Donetsk region by the end of the year. “We are doing everything to prevent that,” he said.
Impact on US Politics
Trump’s comments could influence the debate over US aid to Ukraine. The US Congress recently approved a $61 billion aid package, but some Republicans have called for reducing support. Trump’s positive tone may ease concerns among Ukraine’s supporters, though his past statements have caused uncertainty.
President Joe Biden, who is running for re-election, has made support for Ukraine a key foreign policy priority. His administration announced a new $250 million military aid package, including artillery shells and anti-tank weapons.
