Trump dodges apology to Zelensky ahead of key White House visit
On Thursday, Donald Trump was questioned about whether he would apologise to Volodymyr Zelensky for referring to him as a "dictator." The US President did not respond directly to the journalist's question. However, he added that he holds the President of Ukraine "in great respect."
During a press conference following Trump’s meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Robert Peston highlighted that Volodymyr Zelensky will visit the White House on Friday. During the visit, both sides are expected to sign an agreement regarding the exploitation of Ukraine's natural resources.
When a journalist asked whether he would apologize to President Zelensky for calling him a "dictator" while praising Putin, Trump avoided a direct response. Instead, he stated that the meeting would go well and they would get along. Despite his earlier critical remarks, he now emphasizes his "great respect" for the Ukrainian leader.
In conclusion, Trump said, "We've given him a lot of equipment and a lot of money, but they have fought very bravely. Somebody has to use that equipment." This response effectively sidestepped the question about apologising to Zelensky.
Trump's criticism of Zelensky: Called him a "dictator"
In return for American support, the Trump administration wants Ukraine to agree to transfer rights allowing the USA to exploit 50 per cent of its rare earth metal deposits. The Ukrainian side rejected the initial proposal, arguing that it did not adequately protect Kyiv's interests. At that point, Trump criticised Volodymyr Zelensky, labelling him a "dictator without elections" and urged swift action, warning that "otherwise, he will not have a country". The US President accused the Ukrainian leader of drawing the USA into a "war that cannot be won".
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