Zelensky Rebukes Trump's, Accuses Him of Echoing Russian Disinformation

 Zelensky Rebukes Trump's, Accuses Him of Echoing Russian Disinformation

KYIV—Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has fiercely refuted former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent claim that Ukraine initiated the ongoing war with Russia, accusing him of being ensnared in a "disinformation space" shaped by Kremlin propaganda.

The diplomatic clash, which has sent shockwaves through international circles, underscores the growing divide in global narratives surrounding the conflict. Zelensky’s response comes as Trump’s remarks stir controversy, with potential ramifications for U.S.-Ukraine relations and broader geopolitical stability.

Trump’s Controversial Statement

During a recent press event at his Mar-a-Lago residence, Trump accused Ukraine of provoking the war, stating, "You should've never started it. You could've made a deal." He also alleged that Zelensky's popularity had plummeted to an alarming 4% and criticized Ukraine's decision to suspend elections under martial law.

Trump’s comments have been met with fierce backlash, as they align with narratives historically pushed by Russian state media. The remarks have drawn concern from European allies and security analysts who view them as a direct challenge to Ukraine’s sovereignty and a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy rhetoric.

Zelensky’s Swift Rebuttal

In a firm response from Kyiv, Zelensky dismissed Trump’s claims as factually incorrect and laden with Russian propaganda. "Unfortunately, President Trump lives in a disinformation space," Zelensky said, emphasizing that the assertion of Ukraine initiating the war is "not only misleading but dangerous."

Zelensky pointed to verified polling data from the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology, which places his approval rating at 57%—a stark contrast to Trump’s claim. He also defended Ukraine’s suspension of elections, explaining that under martial law—imposed due to Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion—holding elections would be logistically and constitutionally impossible.

"Elections will take place when our nation is secure, not when we are under existential threat," Zelensky affirmed, stressing that Ukraine remains committed to democratic principles.

Geopolitical Ripples and International Response

Trump’s remarks have emboldened Russia, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov praising the former U.S. president’s statements. Lavrov asserted that Trump's comments validate Russia’s longstanding argument that NATO expansion provoked the conflict. "Trump is the first Western leader to publicly acknowledge that NATO’s eastward movement played a role in the crisis," Lavrov stated.

European leaders have expressed alarm at the U.S.'s engagement in direct talks with Russia without Ukraine’s involvement. French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated that any negotiations must include Kyiv, warning that sidelining Ukraine would undermine global stability. "A peace deal without Ukraine is neither just nor sustainable," Macron declared.

The Stakes for Ukraine and Global Stability

As the war nears its third anniversary, concerns over the trajectory of peace negotiations intensify. Zelensky remains resolute, asserting that Ukraine’s sovereignty is non-negotiable and that any diplomatic resolution must be achieved with Ukraine at the table.

Security analysts warn that excluding Ukraine from critical discussions risks legitimizing Russian aggression and could set dangerous precedents for global territorial disputes. "The implications of these negotiations extend far beyond Eastern Europe; they challenge the very foundation of international law and sovereignty," said political analyst Dr. Natalia Mykolaiv.

Disinformation and Diplomacy

This latest confrontation underscores the growing role of disinformation in shaping global narratives. The battle for truth remains as crucial as the military struggle itself, as world leaders navigate an increasingly complex diplomatic landscape.

With Ukraine standing firm against both military aggression and misinformation, the international community faces a pivotal moment in defining the future of global security and national sovereignty. How the world responds to these claims and counterclaims will shape not only Ukraine’s fate but the broader geopolitical order for years to come.