Zelensky Accuses Trump of Being ‘Trapped in Disinformation Bubble’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused President Donald Trump of falling victim to Russian disinformation, marking a significant escalation in tensions between Kyiv and the new U.S. administration.

Speaking to reporters in Kyiv on Wednesday, Zelensky refuted several unfounded claims made by Trump during a recent address, emphasizing that any resolution to the conflict must involve Ukraine. “Unfortunately, President Trump—who I respect as a leader of a nation we hold in high regard—lives in a disinformation space,” Zelensky stated.

Trump has made it clear that he desires a swift end to the war, even suggesting that such an outcome might come at the cost of further territorial losses for Ukraine. His rhetoric has raised concerns among Ukrainian officials and their allies, particularly as he has at times echoed Kremlin narratives, insinuating that Ukraine could one day become part of Russia.

Trump sparked criticism last week for prioritizing a 90-minute phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin over a conversation with Zelensky. This was followed by high-level talks between U.S. and Russian officials in Riyadh, which notably excluded Ukraine from the discussions.

Putin praised the new U.S. approach, describing the atmosphere of the Riyadh talks as “friendly.” He noted that the American representatives were open to negotiations without bias or condemnation of past actions.

In response to the U.S.-Russia talks, Zelensky expressed discontent over Ukraine’s exclusion, asserting that while nations are free to negotiate bilateral issues, the U.S. holding direct discussions with Russia ultimately benefits Putin and helps him emerge from a prolonged diplomatic isolation.

Under the Biden administration, the U.S. has been one of Ukraine’s staunchest allies, providing substantial military aid. However, Trump has indicated that he believes U.S. support should be contingent upon receiving something in return. Earlier this month, he suggested that the U.S. should gain access to Ukraine’s mineral wealth in exchange for future aid. Zelensky firmly rejected this notion, stating, “I cannot sell our state.”

The friction was exacerbated by Trump’s comments regarding Ukraine’s absence from the recent talks. “Today I heard, ‘Oh well, we weren’t invited.’ Well, you’ve been there for three years. You should’ve ended it after three years. You should’ve never started it. You could’ve made a deal,” Trump remarked.