U.S. President Donald Trump has dialed back earlier criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying he does not hold the leader personally responsible for the ongoing war with Russia. Trump’s remarks signal a shift from past accusations and come amid renewed talks of a strategic minerals deal with Kyiv, which he said could be finalized as early as next Thursday.
Speaking alongside Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White House, Trump stated, “I don’t hold Zelensky responsible, but I’m not exactly thrilled that the war started. I’m not blaming him, but I wouldn’t say he’s done the greatest job. I’m not a big fan.”
Trump had previously and repeatedly made the false claim that Ukraine instigated the conflict and recently accused Zelensky of causing “millions” of deaths. The Ukrainian president, in a CBS interview aired Sunday, invited Trump to visit Ukraine and witness the destruction firsthand — a move that Trump rebuffed with sharp criticism of the network.
The invitation followed a tense exchange in late February at the White House between Zelensky, Trump, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance, which took place in front of reporters.
Prime Minister Meloni, a vocal supporter of Ukraine, reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to backing Kyiv. “We’ve been defending the freedom of Ukraine together. Together we can build a just and lasting peace. We support your efforts,” she said.
Trump also revealed progress on a long-delayed agreement for the extraction of Ukraine’s valuable minerals, disrupted earlier this year due to his conflict with Zelensky. “We have a minerals deal which I guess is going to be signed next Thursday. Soon. And I assume they’re going to live up to the deal. So we’ll see,” he said.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the agreement is being targeted for signing on April 26.
