Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with Ukraine's leadership, accusing it of showing 'zero gratitude' for the support provided by the United States amid ongoing peace negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict with Russia. In statements shared on his Truth Social platform, Trump criticized European nations for continuing to purchase Russian oil despite sanctions, and he described the war as a 'loser for everyone,' lamenting the human cost and stating, 'I inherited a war that should never have happened.'

As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to respond to a proposed U.S.-backed peace deal, European leaders have raised concerns that the agreement may require Ukraine to make significant concessions. Reports indicate that the U.S. plan could demand a reduction of Ukraine's military to 600,000 personnel, the abandonment of its NATO aspirations, and the cession of certain territories. Zelensky faces a difficult decision between maintaining U.S. support and upholding Ukraine's sovereignty and dignity.

In contrast, European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have rejected the U.S. proposal, asserting that Ukraine's borders should not be altered through force. A European peace plan, developed prior to the U.S. initiative, advocates for Ukraine's NATO membership and the presence of European peacekeeping forces, emphasizing robust security guarantees and a commitment to the full reconstruction of Ukraine, including compensation through frozen Russian assets.

The U.S. plan, crafted by Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev, lacks specific limits on Russian military actions and does not reaffirm NATO's Article 5, which guarantees collective defense. Additionally, it includes a controversial clause urging Ukraine to reject 'Nazi ideology and activities,' reflecting Russia's justification for its invasion.

Analysts suggest that while Trump aims to maintain diplomatic relations with Europe, he is also navigating internal political pressures within the U.S. Republican Party. The dynamics of the peace negotiations highlight broader geopolitical interests, with European leaders considering how to leverage their influence in light of Trump's fluctuating stance on Ukraine.

The ongoing situation underscores the complexities of international diplomacy, particularly in the context of military conflict and the humanitarian implications for affected populations. Zelensky has reiterated that Russia is solely responsible for the war, condemning the brutality of Russian military operations and the high casualties resulting from the conflict. He has also expressed gratitude for U.S. support, acknowledging its critical role in saving lives and calling for continued international assistance.