Trump Calls Zelenskiy ‘Dictator Without Elections,’ Signals US-Russia Policy Shift

WASHINGTON, Feb 21 (Alliance News): US President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, calling him “a dictator without elections” and warning that he must act quickly to secure peace or risk losing Ukraine entirely.

The remarks, posted on Trump’s Truth Social platform, came after Zelenskiy accused Trump of being influenced by Russian disinformation.

Zelenskiy’s term was supposed to end in 2024, but elections in Ukraine remain suspended under martial law due to Russia’s invasion.

In response to Trump’s comments, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reaffirmed Ukraine’s determination to resist, stating, “We will defend our right to exist.”

Trump’s stance marks a major policy shift, as he has moved away from previous US efforts to isolate Russia. His administration recently engaged in direct talks with Moscow, raising concerns in Kyiv and among European allies about a potential peace deal that could weaken Ukraine’s position. Trump has suggested that European nations should take more responsibility for securing any ceasefire agreement.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has signaled openness to negotiations but insists on “raising the level of trust” between Washington and Moscow.

Talks between US and Russian officials were held in Saudi Arabia without Ukrainian or European participation, fueling fears that Kyiv’s interests could be sidelined.

European Union leaders have responded by preparing a new sanctions package against Russia while boosting military aid to Ukraine, including artillery rounds, air defense systems, and drones. However, uncertainty over continued US support under Trump has unsettled European officials, with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson urging a measured response.