Following a heated exchange at the White House between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a wave of strong support for Zelensky has emerged in Ukraine. This unexpected clash on Friday has led Ukrainians to praise their leader as a true defender of the nation's interests.
According to an AP report, most Ukrainians seem unperturbed by this debate. They believe Zelensky stood his ground against the world's most powerful figure, firmly defending Ukraine's national honor. Natalia Serhiyenko, a 67-year-old retired woman from Kyiv, remarked that Zelensky fought like a lion. This meeting was crucial, but Zelensky robustly defended Ukraine's interests.
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Kyiv resident, Artem Vasyliev, aged 37, commented on the disrespectful treatment Zelensky received from the U.S. He emphasized Ukraine's pioneering stance against Russia for democracy, questioning what they gained from this interaction.
Vasyliev, originating from Russian-occupied Luhansk, noted Trump's failure to comprehend the ongoing suffering and destruction in Ukraine, where countless civilians and soldiers endure hardships. Trump, focused solely on business, sees money as paramount.
Oleksandr Prokudin, head of Ukraine's southern Kherson region, highlighted the resilience forged by three years of conflict, both for the nation and its president. He expressed confidence in facing this challenge head-on.
Support from the Frontline
On Friday night, as Russia launched drone attacks on Ukraine's second-largest city, Kharkiv, regional leader Oleh Syniehubov praised Zelensky's refusal to settle for peace without guarantees of Ukraine's security and future. What they seek is just peace.
Zelensky Returns from White House without Agreement
The primary aim of the meeting was to agree on a joint investment fund for Ukraine's reconstruction to aid in war termination and economic strengthening. However, under Trump's directive, Zelensky and his team returned without any agreement, impacting Ukraine's hopes for U.S. security assistance. Nevertheless, Zelensky's domestic support remains unwavering.
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High Hopes Dashed by Intense Debate
Ukraine anticipated that post-meeting, America would be a reliable partner against Russia’s aggression, aiding in ending the war. However, the abrupt debate between Zelensky and Trump at the meeting's end dashed these hopes. Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused Zelensky of not issuing a single 'Thank you' for U.S. aid. Russia viewed this incident as a diplomatic win, exploiting the discord in Ukraine-U.S. relations.
Mayor of Kyiv Voices Concern
Not all political figures are fully content with Zelensky’s conduct. Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko expressed hopes that Ukraine would not lose U.S. support, which is vital. He advised against acting on emotions, urging for mutual understanding.
America First Versus Ukraine's Interests
The Trump administration linked this dispute to its 'America First' policy and questioned Zelensky's gratitude, but Ukrainians saw his stance as a bold defense of national interests.
