European leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, while Russia praised Trump’s “restraint” during his heated exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
On February 28, Trump and Zelensky met to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war and a potential mineral deal between the U.S. and Ukraine. However, the talks quickly escalated into a shouting match, with both leaders openly criticizing each other in front of the press.
The tense exchange led Zelensky to leave the White House earlier than planned. The two leaders canceled their joint press conference and did not sign the expected mineral agreement.
Russia and Allies Applaud Trump
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, who met with Zelensky before the White House meeting, praised Trump’s response to the Ukrainian president.
“Zelensky will either need to fundamentally change or step aside. I don’t think the American people want to partner with him after today,” Graham said. “Ukraine is an important ally. I don’t want Russia to win, but it’s hard to help someone who doesn’t recognize their role.”
Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova seized on Zelensky’s remarks, accusing him of lying about Ukraine being “left alone” in 2022 when the war started.
“Trump and Vice President JD Vance showed incredible restraint in the face of Zelensky’s arrogance,” Zakharova said.
Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev claimed Zelensky was "slapped down" at the White House, while Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia’s Direct Investment Fund and a negotiator in U.S.-Russia talks, called the White House argument a "historic moment."
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, one of the few European leaders aligned with Trump and Putin, praised the U.S. president for pushing for peace.
“President Trump bravely stood for peace today, even if many won’t accept it. Thank you, Mr. President,” Orban wrote on social media.
European Leaders Rally Behind Ukraine
While Russia and its allies praised Trump, Western leaders voiced strong support for Ukraine.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to Ukraine, saying:
“No one wants peace more than the people of Ukraine. That’s why we are working together to secure a just and lasting peace. Ukraine can count on Germany and Europe.”
French President Emmanuel Macron blamed Russia for the war, stressing that the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Canada were right to back Ukraine and sanction Russia.
“We will continue our support,” Macron said.
Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly echoed the sentiment, promising that Canada would continue providing Ukraine with security and economic aid.
Leaders from Moldova, Spain, and the Czech Republic also expressed unwavering support for Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen sent a direct message to Zelensky, commending his "dignity and courage."
“Your bravery honors the courage of the Ukrainian people. Stay strong. Stay fearless. You are never alone, Mr. President. We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace,” she said.
Italy Calls for Urgent Summit
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warned that division within the West would only weaken their collective strength.
“Divisions serve no one, and they only benefit those who oppose us,” Meloni said. She called for an immediate summit between the U.S., the EU, and key allies to hold frank discussions on today’s biggest geopolitical challenges—starting with Ukraine.
(Sources: AFP, Reuters, TASS)
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