Trump Praises Zelensky’s War Efforts Amid Ongoing Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Former US President Donald Trump expressed approval of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s conduct in the ongoing war against Russia. Speaking at a press conference on June 24th at the White House alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump commented on the conflict’s heavy toll and Zelensky’s perseverance.

“At least he’s holding on,” Trump said in response to a journalist’s question about whether Zelensky is currently winning. “A lot of people are dying on both sides, but I think he’s doing pretty well.”

Shift in Tone Toward Zelensky

This marks a notable shift in Trump’s stance, as he had previously criticized Zelensky, accusing him at times of hindering peace efforts. The former president’s recent comments come against the backdrop of intensified global support for Ukraine, including coordinated sanctions against Russia by G7 nations.

“I think he’s doing pretty well,” Trump stated, underscoring Zelensky’s resilience in the conflict.

During the same conference, Trump aired frustration with Germany and other European nations over their approach to US and Israeli policies toward Iran. He lamented that despite significant US investments—amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars—in deploying troops in Germany and elsewhere in Europe, Washington has not received reciprocal support.

Trump’s remarks did not name German Chancellor Friedrich Merz directly but alluded to a lack of cooperation, even likening the US request to “asking for a little kiss” that was refused.

Earlier in June, at the G7 summit in France, Trump met with other world leaders including Zelensky. The meeting was described as “very good” by Trump, who expressed hope that Russia would seek peace with Ukraine. He pledged to do “everything in his power” to facilitate a resolution.

This optimistic outlook contrasts with the tone of Zelensky’s 2023 Oval Office visit, when Trump reportedly told him that he held little leverage in potential peace talks with Russia.

On June 24th, Zelensky addressed the Ukrainian public, stating that with the aid discussed during the G7 summit, Kyiv would be able to create conditions compelling Russia to choose peace. Specific details of these conditions were not disclosed.