U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement that he has initiated negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Ukraine war has drawn sharp criticism from Kyiv’s supporters, who accuse Trump of undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty and interests. The move has been labeled as a potential surrender to Moscow, even before formal talks have begun.
Key Reactions
- U.S. Senator Adam Schiff:
A vocal critic of Trump, Schiff condemned the president’s approach, calling him a “great dealmaker all right — for the Kremlin.” He criticized Trump for prioritizing a call with Putin over consulting Ukraine, a key U.S. ally. Schiff also highlighted concerns over U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s remarks, which suggested that Ukraine should abandon hopes of reclaiming all its occupied territories, calling it a “surrender of Ukraine’s interests.” - EU and European Leaders:
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, speaking on behalf of the Weimar + group (including France, Poland, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the U.K.), emphasized that Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity are non-negotiable. She stressed the need for robust security guarantees and strengthening Ukraine’s position.Marko Mihkelson, chair of the Estonian parliament’s foreign affairs committee, warned that the day could be remembered as a “dark day for Europe” and urged European leaders to take greater control over their collective fate. - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy:
Zelenskyy struck a diplomatic tone, expressing optimism about his discussions with Trump and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He stated that the two leaders agreed to remain in contact and plan future meetings, emphasizing the importance of stopping Russian aggression and achieving lasting peace. - International Criticism:
Former British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly criticized Trump’s negotiation strategy, arguing that starting talks by conceding ground sends a dangerous message that “invasion pays off.” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for a “just peace” and insisted that Ukraine and Europe must be equal participants in any negotiations.Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, whose government has maintained friendly ties with Moscow, welcomed Trump’s call with Putin as a step toward ending the war.
Trump’s Remarks and Their Implications
Trump’s comments have raised concerns about his willingness to prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty. During a press conference, he downplayed Ukraine’s chances of reclaiming all its lost territory, stating that it was “unlikely” but adding that “some of it will come back.” He also declined to affirm Ukraine’s equal role in the peace process, calling it an “interesting question” and suggesting that Ukraine “has to make peace.”
These statements have been interpreted as placing blame on Ukraine for the conflict, drawing criticism from Kyiv’s allies. Ohio Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur emphasized that Ukraine is the “scrimmage line for Liberty on the continent of Europe” and insisted that Zelenskyy must lead any negotiations on behalf of his nation.
Broader Concerns
Trump’s approach has sparked fears that his administration is willing to sacrifice Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty for a quick resolution to the conflict. Critics argue that this could embolden Russia and other authoritarian regimes, signaling that aggression may be rewarded.
Chrystia Freeland, a Canadian Liberal candidate and long-time Russia observer, reiterated the importance of supporting Ukraine, stating that it is in the interest of all democracies to stand with Kyiv. She also called for Ukraine’s full membership in NATO.
Looking Ahead
As Trump prepares for a potential meeting with Putin in Saudi Arabia, the international community remains wary of his negotiation tactics. Kyiv’s allies are urging the U.S. to prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty and ensure that any peace agreement is just and equitable. The outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for global security and the future of international diplomacy.
For now, Ukraine’s supporters are calling for unity and a firm stance against Russian aggression, emphasizing that peace must not come at the cost of justice or sovereignty.
