Donald Trump sparked a new wave of controversy on Monday after he claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, along with Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Joe Biden, shares the blame for the millions of deaths caused by the Ukraine war.
“Let’s say Putin, number one, but let’s say Biden, who had no idea what the hell he was doing, number two, and Zelensky. Millions of people dead because of three people,” Trump said during a meeting with the President of El Salvador.
His comments come just one day after Russia launched a deadly missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy, killing at least 35 people, making it one of the deadliest attacks since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. Ukraine reported yet another missile attack on Monday.
Trump Doubles Down on Criticism
Trump questioned Zelensky’s decision-making during the conflict, saying:
“When you start a war, you got to know that you can win the war. You don’t start a war against somebody that’s 20 times your size, and then hope people give you some missiles.”
He added that his main goal now is to stop the killing and claimed progress is being made.
“A Deal Is Possible”
Despite the criticism, Trump signaled hope for peace, stating that a deal with Kyiv is still possible. Talks are reportedly ongoing regarding an agreement that would allow the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare minerals in exchange for the aid given during the war.
“I think you’ll have some very good proposals very soon,” Trump said.
According to sources, the proposed deal could grant the U.S. royalty payments on profits from Ukrainian mining operations, particularly critical minerals and rare earths.
Zelensky Responds
In an interview with CBS, Zelensky invited Trump to visit Ukraine, saying it would help him better understand the devastation caused by Russia’s actions.
Meanwhile, Trump wrote on Truth Social:
“Crooked Joe Biden did an absolutely horrible job in allowing this travesty to begin… Now we have to get it to STOP, AND FAST. SO SAD!”
Controversy Continues
Trump’s remarks have drawn sharp criticism from political analysts and humanitarian groups who argue that equating the Ukrainian president with the aggressor undermines global support for Ukraine.
As diplomatic efforts continue and civilian casualties mount, the world watches closely for what could come next in the Ukraine-Russia conflict — and Trump’s role in shaping the conversation.
