LONDON: European allies have strongly backed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following a tense confrontation with US President Donald Trump at the White House. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warmly welcomed Zelensky to Downing Street, reaffirming Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
Key Developments
- Trump-Zelensky Confrontation: During a heated Oval Office exchange, Trump accused Zelensky of not being ready for peace and suggested the US would withdraw support if Ukraine did not negotiate with Russia. Zelensky refused to accept a truce on Trump’s terms, calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a “killer.”
- Zelensky Expelled from White House: US media reported that Trump’s officials asked Zelensky to leave, with Trump later stating, “He can come back when he is ready for peace.”
- European Support for Ukraine: In response, European leaders rushed to Zelensky’s defense, emphasizing their continued backing for Ukraine.
Europe’s Response
- UK: PM Starmer reaffirmed full support for Ukraine, highlighting the need for a just and lasting peace. Britain also announced a £2.26 billion military loan to bolster Ukraine’s war efforts.
- EU: Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa told Zelensky, “You are never alone.”
- Germany: Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described the White House clash as “unspeakable” and likened it to “a bad dream.”
- Poland: PM Donald Tusk directly reassured Zelensky, saying, “You are not alone.”
- Canada & Australia: Reiterated long-term commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty.
- Hungary: PM Viktor Orban controversially called for direct EU-Russia talks and opposed a bloc-wide agreement on Ukraine.
Trump’s Position & Russia’s Reaction
- Trump’s Shift: Trump has alarmed Kyiv and European allies by reaching out to Putin and portraying himself as a mediator rather than a supporter of Ukraine.
- Russia’s Celebration: Russian officials mocked Zelensky, with Dmitry Medvedev calling him an “insolent pig” and describing his trip as a “complete failure.”
What’s Next?
- European leaders are gathering in London to discuss increased defense cooperation and strategies to counter Trump’s unpredictability on Ukraine.
- Zelensky has vowed to continue fighting, despite mounting pressure from Trump.
This diplomatic standoff has exposed deep divisions in Western support for Ukraine, with Trump’s shifting stance raising concerns about the future of NATO unity and transatlantic cooperation.
