In a recent interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his concerns about the contentious Oval Office meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky. Johnson echoed Sen. Lindsey Graham’s suggestion that for peace agreements to materialize, Zelensky might need to resign, emphasizing the need for a shift in leadership dynamics. Despite acknowledging the threat posed by Russian President Putin, Johnson emphasized the potential benefits of a U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, highlighting its strategic importance for both nations.

However, not all Republican lawmakers share the sentiment regarding Zelensky’s resignation. Sen. James Lankford emphasized that Zelensky’s resignation could lead to chaos in Ukraine and reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to supporting the country against Russian aggression. Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders strongly condemned suggestions of Zelensky resigning, emphasizing Zelensky’s role in defending democracy against Putin’s authoritarian regime.

As debates around Zelensky’s leadership intensify, European leaders, including U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have shown solidarity with Ukraine. At a recent summit in London, leaders discussed short and long-term security plans for Ukraine and pledged ongoing support in the face of Russia’s aggression. Starmer assured Zelensky of the collective support from the international community and outlined plans for collaborative efforts to halt the conflict and present a united front to the U.S.

The ongoing discussions underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play and the critical need for international cooperation to address the escalating crisis in Ukraine.