Trump Labels Zelensky a Difficult Negotiator, Says Dealing With Him Is Tougher Than With Putin

US President Donald Trump has criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, describing him as a difficult person to negotiate with and saying he is harder to deal with than Russian President Vladimir Putin. The remarks highlight continuing tensions between Washington and Kyiv as diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war face fresh challenges.

In an interview with Newsmax, Trump questioned Zelensky’s approach to negotiations and suggested that his dealings with the Ukrainian leader had been more difficult than those with Putin. His comments come amid disagreements over Ukraine’s military strategy and the US administration’s efforts to secure an end to the conflict.

Trump has repeatedly called for a negotiated settlement to the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Moscow and Kyiv remain divided over key issues, including territorial control, security guarantees and the conditions required for a lasting ceasefire. The latest dispute follows renewed Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. Trump has criticised strikes on Russian oil facilities, arguing that they could complicate diplomatic efforts and make an agreement more difficult to achieve.

Ukraine, meanwhile, has maintained that its military operations are part of its response to Russian aggression. Kyiv has also stressed the importance of securing reliable guarantees to prevent further attacks if a ceasefire is reached. Zelensky has expressed concerns about Washington’s approach to negotiations with Moscow, emphasising that any peace agreement must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and long-term security. The Ukrainian president has sought continued international support as uncertainty grows over the future direction of US policy.

Trump’s comparison between Zelensky and Putin underscores the challenges facing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. Although Washington has pushed for a settlement, the parties remain divided on fundamental questions concerning territory, military security and the implementation of any agreement.

European countries are also expected to remain important partners for Ukraine as discussions over military assistance and future security arrangements continue. Trump’s latest remarks signal continued friction between the US and Ukrainian leadership. Whether the criticism will affect ongoing negotiations remains uncertain, but the differences between Washington and Kyiv could complicate efforts to establish a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine.

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