President Donald Trump criticized Ukraine for inviting Russia’s assault, suggesting that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should have outlined a clear path to victory before engaging in war with Moscow in 2022. During an Oval Office meeting on April 14, Trump placed blame on all parties involved in the conflict, including himself. He specifically condemned former President Joe Biden and Zelenskyy, labeling them as incompetent following a deadly Russian missile strike in Sumy that resulted in 35 deaths and 117 injuries.

Trump emphasized the importance of knowing one’s capabilities before starting a war, questioning Zelenskyy’s decision to confront a much larger adversary without adequate preparation. This criticism escalated in February, leading to a breakdown in talks between the U.S. and Ukraine. Trump insisted that Zelenskyy should have prevented Putin’s breach of a ceasefire agreement, ultimately preventing the war.

Despite the tensions, negotiations have resumed, with Ukraine agreeing to a U.S.-led temporary ceasefire with Russia in March. However, Russia attempted to renegotiate the terms without success. Zelenskyy, in a social media post on April 14, called for peace talks with Russia, emphasizing Ukraine’s desire for lasting peace and reiterating that Ukraine never wanted the war. The situation remains complex, with both sides seeking a resolution to the ongoing conflict.