The tense meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and former President Donald J. Trump in the Oval Office on Friday ended in acrimony, drawing strong reactions from leaders across the world. The encounter, marked by sharp disagreements over U.S. support for Ukraine, left allies reaffirming their commitment to Kyiv while prompting criticism from Moscow and some European nationalist leaders.
Despite the contentious meeting, many world leaders swiftly expressed solidarity with Ukraine.
President Zelensky, writing on the social media platform X, sought to underscore Ukraine’s resilience:
“Thank you, America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you @POTUS, Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada reaffirmed his country’s position, writing:
“Russia illegally and unjustifiably invaded Ukraine. For three years now, Ukrainians have fought with courage and resilience. Their fight for democracy, freedom, and sovereignty is a fight that matters to us all. Canada will continue to stand with Ukraine and Ukrainians in achieving a just and lasting peace.”
In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz echoed the sentiment, stating:
“No one wants peace more than the citizens of Ukraine! That is why we are jointly seeking the path to a lasting and just peace. Ukraine can rely on Germany – and on Europe.”
President Emmanuel Macron of France, speaking to reporters in Portugal, said the West was right to stand by Ukraine:
“Russia is the aggressor, and Ukraine is the aggressed. I think we were all right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago, and to continue to do so. We must thank all those who have helped and respect those who have been fighting since the beginning. Because they are fighting for their dignity, their independence, their children, and the security of Europe.”
Calls for Unity and Diplomacy
Some European leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining Western cohesion in the face of Russian aggression.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy warned against divisions, calling for an urgent diplomatic summit:
“Every division of the West makes us all weaker and favors those who would like to see the decline of our civilization. A division would not benefit anyone. What is needed is an immediate summit between the United States, European states, and allies to talk frankly about how we intend to deal with the great challenges of today, starting with Ukraine.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson reaffirmed his country’s steadfast position:
“He retains his unwavering support for Ukraine and is playing his part to find a path forward to a lasting peace, based on sovereignty and security for Ukraine.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese framed Ukraine’s struggle as a battle between democracy and authoritarianism:
“We will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, because this is the struggle of a democratic nation versus an authoritarian regime led by Vladimir Putin, who clearly has imperialistic designs, not just on Ukraine, but throughout that region.”
Criticism from Moscow and Right-Wing Leaders
While many leaders expressed unwavering support for Ukraine, Trump’s confrontation with Zelensky drew approval from nationalist figures in Europe and from Moscow.
Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now a top official in Russia’s Security Council, wrote on Telegram:
“A brutal dressing down in the Oval Office.”
Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary, one of Europe’s most Russia-friendly leaders, praised Trump’s stance:
“Strong men make peace, weak men make war. Today President @realDonaldTrump stood bravely for peace. Even if it was difficult for many to digest. Thank you, Mr. President!”
Matteo Salvini, Italy’s deputy prime minister and leader of the far-right League party, called for an end to the conflict:
“Aim for PEACE, stop this war! Come on @realDonaldTrump.”
Growing Concerns in Europe
Other European leaders expressed concern over the White House meeting’s implications.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, in a statement to TV2, said:
“What we saw from the White House today is serious and disheartening. Ukraine still needs the U.S.’s support, and Ukraine’s security and future are also important to the U.S. and to Europe. That Trump accuses Zelensky of gambling with World War III is deeply unreasonable, and a statement I distance myself from. Norway stands with Ukraine in their struggle for freedom.”
Czech President Petr Pavel, writing on X, called for increased European support:
“We stand with Ukraine more than ever. Time for Europe to step up its efforts.”
Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof reaffirmed his country’s commitment:
“The Netherlands continues to support Ukraine. Especially now. We want lasting peace and an end to the war of aggression that Russia has started. For Ukraine, for all its inhabitants and for Europe.”
As the fallout from the Oval Office meeting continues, Ukraine and its allies face increasing uncertainty over the direction of U.S. policy. While many world leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Kyiv, Trump’s remarks—and the division they exposed—underscored the challenges ahead for the transatlantic alliance.
