The fallout hints at deeper divides between Washington and Kyiv, with Ukrainians anxiously watching their leadership amidst ongoing conflict.
**Ukrainians Display Discontent After Disappointing Trump-Zelensky Meeting**
**Ukrainians Display Discontent After Disappointing Trump-Zelensky Meeting**
Commentators in Ukraine express shock and frustration after a tumultuous meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
In a recent meeting that stunned many in Ukraine, the exchange between President Volodymyr Zelensky and former U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked a wave of disappointment and criticism. Observers in Kyiv grappled with the implications of the event, fearing for their country's future amid ongoing aggression from Russia. "It was an emotional conversation, but I understand our president," shared Yulia near the iconic St Sofia's Cathedral. "Maybe it wasn't diplomatic, but it was sincere. It's about life; we want to live."
Yulia's perspective aligns with the growing sentiment of unity among Ukrainians as external hostilities intensify. Notably, Zelensky's approval rating soared from 37% before the full-scale invasion in 2022 to 90% afterward. However, this figure slightly dipped to 52% just before Trump's return to office in early 2025, before rising again to 65% following unfavorable comments Trump made about Ukraine. "They [Trump and JD Vance] were so rude," expressed 30-year-old Andriy. "They don't respect the people of Ukraine."
Dmytro, another 26-year-old observer, reiterated a common sentiment: "It looks like Washington supports Russia!" This growing resentment raises questions about how the recent meeting has impacted Zelensky's standing. "When the situation becomes worse, we have another rallying around the flag," explained Volodymyr Paniotto, head of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology. Yet, he acknowledges that Zelensky's approval ratings have fluctuated over time and may face further scrutiny after the recent events.
Opposition MP Inna Sovsun voiced her dismay, describing the encounter as painful for a leader who represents a nation under attack. Despite this distress, she clarified that Ukraine should persist in its negotiations to forge a path toward resolution. "It's important to find the right mediator," she emphasized. Meanwhile, discussing the press coverage concerning a mineral deal that did not materialize, she urged for Ukraine to seek reliable allies in Europe and beyond who could fulfill their needs for security guarantees.
Ukrainians remain hopeful that their country can navigate these turbulent waters without compromising its democratic ideals. "We are the ones who are suffering," added Sovsun, recounting the toll the conflict has taken on families across the nation, illustrating the urgency for stability amid relentless pressures.
As she analyzes the implications of a potential second Trump presidency, MP Ivanna Klympush-Tsyntsadze noted the reframing of the U.S. support narrative, cautioning against complacency. "This mineral agreement does not obligate America to enhance military assistance," she said.
The war continues to loom, and individuals like Taras Chmut, leader of the Come Back Alive foundation, assert that the outcome of this conflict could reverberate across the future world order. While Trump may promote an "America First" agenda, the reality remains that global peace heavily relies on U.S. involvement. As the international community grapples with these challenges, the need for a clear vision and collaborative action becomes increasingly urgent for Ukraine and its allies.
Yulia's perspective aligns with the growing sentiment of unity among Ukrainians as external hostilities intensify. Notably, Zelensky's approval rating soared from 37% before the full-scale invasion in 2022 to 90% afterward. However, this figure slightly dipped to 52% just before Trump's return to office in early 2025, before rising again to 65% following unfavorable comments Trump made about Ukraine. "They [Trump and JD Vance] were so rude," expressed 30-year-old Andriy. "They don't respect the people of Ukraine."
Dmytro, another 26-year-old observer, reiterated a common sentiment: "It looks like Washington supports Russia!" This growing resentment raises questions about how the recent meeting has impacted Zelensky's standing. "When the situation becomes worse, we have another rallying around the flag," explained Volodymyr Paniotto, head of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology. Yet, he acknowledges that Zelensky's approval ratings have fluctuated over time and may face further scrutiny after the recent events.
Opposition MP Inna Sovsun voiced her dismay, describing the encounter as painful for a leader who represents a nation under attack. Despite this distress, she clarified that Ukraine should persist in its negotiations to forge a path toward resolution. "It's important to find the right mediator," she emphasized. Meanwhile, discussing the press coverage concerning a mineral deal that did not materialize, she urged for Ukraine to seek reliable allies in Europe and beyond who could fulfill their needs for security guarantees.
Ukrainians remain hopeful that their country can navigate these turbulent waters without compromising its democratic ideals. "We are the ones who are suffering," added Sovsun, recounting the toll the conflict has taken on families across the nation, illustrating the urgency for stability amid relentless pressures.
As she analyzes the implications of a potential second Trump presidency, MP Ivanna Klympush-Tsyntsadze noted the reframing of the U.S. support narrative, cautioning against complacency. "This mineral agreement does not obligate America to enhance military assistance," she said.
The war continues to loom, and individuals like Taras Chmut, leader of the Come Back Alive foundation, assert that the outcome of this conflict could reverberate across the future world order. While Trump may promote an "America First" agenda, the reality remains that global peace heavily relies on U.S. involvement. As the international community grapples with these challenges, the need for a clear vision and collaborative action becomes increasingly urgent for Ukraine and its allies.
