President Trump’s image among Ukrainians had waned significantly, but his recent remarks following a brief encounter with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky seem to suggest a nuanced change in perspective regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. The meeting took place during an event in Rome, coinciding with Pope Francis’ funeral, and yielded a surprising statement from Trump on social media, asking the poignant question of why President Vladimir Putin continues to attack Ukraine despite American efforts to facilitate peace.
“This makes me think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along,” Trump reflected on Truth Social, casting a critical light on Putin’s intentions. This expression of skepticism towards the Russian leader may instill a sense of encouragement for Ukrainians at a time when the United States has been advocating for a peace proposal that many in Ukraine fear would compromise their national interests.
The controversial plan reportedly involves Ukraine renouncing NATO membership aspirations, accepting vague security guarantees, and official recognition of Crimea as part of Russia—a deal that Kyiv has decisively rejected. Still, amidst the recent turmoil, including a catastrophic missile strike in Kyiv that killed 12 and injured nearly 90, Trump’s comments reflect an evolving tone and potentially a stronger backing for Ukraine.
The photographs of Trump and Zelensky conversing in Rome painted a more favorable picture than their previous interaction in February, which ended in a frostier note and led to a temporary cut in U.S. support. Volodymyr Dubovyk, a scholar from Odesa I.I. Mechnikov National University, remarked on the significance of their candid exchange, underscoring the importance of such personal discussions between the two leaders.
As the war rages on, this unexpected meeting may represent a small yet hopeful inflection point for Ukraine, suggesting that U.S. pressure may not be entirely geared toward appeasing Moscow. The situation remains tense, but for many in Kyiv, there is now a faint glimmer of optimism regarding their ally’s support.
