Zelensky Commends Trump as Ukraine’s Conflict Enters a New Era of Uncertainty
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed admiration for Donald Trump, particularly as Trump’s recent election victory casts shadows over Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia.
In recent months, Ukraine has faced increasing territorial setbacks. Enhanced and better-equipped Russian forces are making significant inroads in crucial eastern regions, leading to some of the most intense combat witnessed since Moscow’s aggression began in February 2022.
Trump has been vocal about his discontent with America’s current level of support for Ukraine, pledging to resolve the conflict before he resumes office in January, although he has yet to clarify how he plans to achieve this.
In a message shortly after Trump’s electoral win, Zelensky voiced his anticipation for “a robust United States under President Trump’s assertive leadership.” This hopeful sentiment speaks volumes about Ukraine’s need for unwavering support from its allies in these trying times.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations remarked that the organization is “prepared to engage constructively” with Trump’s upcoming administration. “I applaud the American populace for their active involvement in the democratic process… The UN stands ready to work collaboratively with the new leadership to tackle the significant hurdles the world is currently facing,” stated Antonio Guterres. His comments illustrate a broader expectation among global leaders for impactful collaboration ahead.
NATO’s head, Mark Rutte, extended his congratulations to Trump, asserting that his reinstatement would help solidify the alliance. “His strong leadership is pivotal for maintaining our Alliance’s resilience. I look forward to collaborating with him once again to promote peace through strength via NATO,” Rutte remarked, emphasizing the importance of unity among allies.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen conveyed that the partnership between the European Union and the United States transcends mere alliance. “I extend warm congratulations to Donald J. Trump. The EU and US share more than a friendship; we are united by a genuine partnership that spans 800 million citizens. Let’s collectively work on a robust transatlantic agenda benefiting our people,” she expressed on social media.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heralded Trump’s anticipated return as “history’s greatest comeback” and a refreshing phase in the US-Israel relationship. “Congratulations on achieving history’s most remarkable comeback! Your return to the White House signals a new chapter for America and a reinvigoration of the powerful alliance between Israel and the United States. This is an exceptional triumph!” Netanyahu remarked in a publicly issued statement.
Concurrently, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron convened for a phone discussion regarding the recent US election. They agreed to maintain close cooperation on this matter, as affirmed by Scholz’s spokesperson, Steffen Hebestreit.
In a prior post, Macron stated his eagerness to collaborate with Trump “with respect and ambition.”
“Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump. I’m ready to work together just as we did in the past four years, combining your convictions with mine for greater peace and prosperity,” Macron tweeted.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his best wishes to Trump. “Heartiest congratulations, my friend @realDonaldTrump, on your historic election victory. As you build upon the accomplishments of your previous term, I eagerly anticipate renewing our partnership,” he noted in a tweet.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended his greetings, emphasizing that the special relationship between the UK and USA would “continue to shine.” “As steadfast allies, we stand united in defending our shared values of freedom, democracy, and entrepreneurship. From growth and security to innovation and technology, I am confident the special relationship between the UK and US will flourish across the Atlantic for years ahead,” he remarked.
Among the earliest congratulations was Hungary’s nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who excitedly tweeted about Trump’s achievement, calling it “the most significant comeback in US political history!” He claimed, “Congratulations to President @realDonaldTrump on his huge win. This is a much-needed victory for the world!” However, he had voiced earlier concerns that Europe might need to reconsider its stance on Ukraine should Trump return to power.
Interestingly, China also issued congratulations to Trump for his electoral victory. “We respect the will of the American people and extend our congratulations to Mr. Trump on his election as president,” said Beijing’s foreign ministry in an online statement. Spokeswoman Mao Ning highlighted China’s aspirations for “peaceful coexistence” with the United States, emphasizing the desire to maintain stable relations regardless of the political shifts.
In contrast, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum remained optimistic, stating that Trump’s victory posed “no cause for concern”, despite his previous threats of tariffs and deportations. “We are a free, independent, and sovereign nation, and I believe strong relations with the United States are absolutely possible,” she expressed, outlining her vision for future diplomacy.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring