LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE
US Cancels Joint Conference with Zelenskyy Amid Rising Tensions Following Trump Comments
The cancellation follows controversial remarks by Donald Trump labeling Ukraine's President as a 'dictator' amid ongoing peace talks involving the US and Russia.
21 February 2025 · 03:10 UTC
The conference, which was to feature Zelenskyy alongside US Chief Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg, was scheduled for Thursday but was abandoned after cameras were briefly allowed into the venue before being removed.
The two leaders proceeded to meet privately.
In a subsequent social media post, President Zelenskyy characterized his discussions with Kellogg as "productive," emphasizing Ukraine's commitment to establishing a durable peace following the ongoing conflict with Russia.
He stated, "From the very first second of this war, Ukraine has sought peace.
We must and can ensure that peace is strong and lasting—so that Russia can never return with war.
Ukraine is ready for a strong, effective investment and security agreement with the President of the United States.
Strong Ukraine-U.S. relations benefit the entire world."
The controversy surrounding the cancellation was amplified earlier this week when former President Donald Trump referred to Zelenskyy as a "dictator" during a Truth Social post.
His comments triggered outrage in various political circles, particularly as the US engages in peace negotiations with Russia that exclude Ukraine, leading to perceptions that the current administration may be neglecting European interests.
In response to Trump's remarks, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed support for President Zelenskyy, affirming the legitimacy of Ukraine's wartime governance, which has included the postponement of elections previously scheduled for 2024. Starmer emphasized to Zelenskyy that it was "perfectly reasonable" for Kyiv to suspend elections during military conflict, drawing a parallel with historical practices during World War II.
After their conversation, Zelenskyy articulated gratitude towards the UK for its integral role in fortifying European defense and security, reiterating a commitment to collaboration.
In his remarks, Trump criticized the financial commitment of the United States to Ukraine, asserting that it had exceeded that of Europe and questioning the rationale behind the financial disparity.
He stated, "The United States has spent $200 billion more than Europe, and Europe’s money is guaranteed, while the United States will get nothing back."
Zelenskyy, addressing Trump's statements, accused the former president of living in a "disinformation space" and countered claims that he had instigated the conflict.
He described a prevailing narrative of disinformation propagated by Russia and dismissed suggestions regarding his political viability, claiming his actual approval ratings stand at 50% contrary to reports of a 4% approval rating.