Key takeaways

• President Trump said Russia wants Ukraine to succeed after the war.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy laughed at Trump’s surprising comment.
• Analysts and politicians slammed Trump’s loyalty to Russia.
• The claim sparked fierce debate online.

Trump Says Russia Wants Ukraine to Succeed

On Sunday at Mar-a-Lago, President Trump met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. After their peace talks, Trump made a startling remark. He said Russia wants Ukraine to succeed once the war ends. The idea sounded odd to many. For weeks, Ukraine has faced invasion, bombing, and terror from Russia. Trump’s comment surprised reporters and world leaders alike.

During the press session, a reporter asked if Russia would help rebuild Ukraine. Trump replied, “Russia wants Ukraine to succeed.” He added that President Putin felt generous about Ukraine winning. Zelenskyy could not hide his amusement. He briefly laughed and mouthed “yes” to the press. Despite the laughter, Trump pressed on. He claimed Putin had offered energy and support at low prices.

Why Trump Thinks Russia Wants Ukraine to Succeed

Trump explained his view of Putin’s generosity. He said Putin cared about Ukraine’s success. According to Trump, Russia wanted stability in Europe. Therefore, they would help rebuild. Trump painted Russia as a kind actor. However, many experts saw a different story. They pointed to Russia’s invasion and its ongoing air strikes. Thus, this idea clashed with the real events on the ground.

Moreover, Trump reminded everyone of past U.S. relationships with strong allies. He argued that former presidents had worked with enemies when needed. By his logic, co-operation can end conflicts faster. Yet, his critics noted Ukraine’s fight for survival. Ukraine has risked millions of lives to stay free. Therefore, they saw Russia’s role as hostile, not helpful. In this context, the claim looked even more bizarre.

Experts React to Russia Wants Ukraine to Succeed Claim

Immediate reactions poured in on social media. Journalist Mike Rothschild wrote that Trump was “lost in a palace of mirrors.” He meant Trump seemed detached from reality. Others agreed that the claim did not match the facts of war.

David Axelrod, a top political analyst, reminded people that Trump once trusted Putin over his own generals. Axelrod said this showed Trump’s long record of favoring Russia. He stressed that America’s own intelligence had proven Russia’s harmful actions in Ukraine.

Former Republican Representative Adam Kinzinger spoke harshly. He called Trump the dumbest man to ever sit in the White House. He claimed this remark was proof of where Trump’s loyalties lie. Kinzinger said it showed Trump wanted Russia to win at any cost.

Journalist John Harwood added that Russia has been Trump’s financial and political benefactor. He argued Trump often praised Russia’s actions. Harwood concluded that this praise undercut American interests.

Meanwhile, Democratic strategist Adam Parkhomenko called the claim unhinged. He said praising Putin’s “generosity” reeked of betrayal. Parkhomenko stressed that Ukraine is still under deadly attack. He warned that Trump’s words revealed where his true loyalties lie.

What This Means for Ukraine and US-Russia Relations

This claim could reshape future peace talks. If Trump truly believes Russia wants Ukraine to succeed, he might push for terms that favor Russia. That could leave Ukraine in a weaker position. It might also alarm U.S. allies who fear a deal that ignores Russia’s aggression.

Furthermore, the comment has big implications for U.S. politics. Many Republicans have been critical of Trump’s stance on Ukraine. Now they may push even harder for strict support of Kyiv. Meanwhile, some Trump allies might defend his view. They could argue that talking with Russia paves the way to peace.

Also, Ukraine’s leaders must decide whether to trust Trump again. Zelenskyy has worked closely with other U.S. presidents. He has relied on American military aid. Now, he must weigh Trump’s surprising loyalties. His brief laughter hinted at disbelief. It also showed he knows the harsh reality of war.

Ultimately, the world watched as Trump said Russia wants Ukraine to succeed. His words raised doubts about U.S. support for Ukraine’s future. They also highlighted deep divisions in American views on Russia. As the war continues, such claims may define the next phase of diplomacy and aid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Trump say about Russia’s role in Ukraine?

Trump said that Russia wants Ukraine to succeed and that Putin offered low-cost energy support.

How did Zelenskyy react to Trump’s claim?

Zelenskyy laughed and mouthed “yes,” showing he found the claim surprising.

Why are analysts upset by this statement?

Analysts say Russia invaded and bombed Ukraine, making Trump’s claim seem out of touch with reality.

Could this affect U.S. support for Ukraine?

Yes, it could change how U.S. leaders approach aid and peace talks with both sides.