President Donald Trump recently criticized both Russia and Ukraine during a press conference in the Oval Office, stating that neither side was making progress toward ending the war. While acknowledging difficulties in dealing with Ukraine, Trump expressed that working with Russia seemed easier. ‘I think we’re doing very well with Russia,’ he said, though he also noted, ’they’re bombing the hell out of Ukraine.’
CNN anchor Jim Sciutto immediately disputed Trump’s claims on X. ‘This is not true,’ Sciutto wrote, highlighting Ukraine’s effective military operations, including its successful counterattacks against the Russian Black Sea fleet despite lacking a navy. He also criticized Trump for removing crucial support, stating that Ukraine has significant leverage in negotiations.
The tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky escalated last week when Zelensky was reportedly berated by Trump during a meeting at the White House. Trump reportedly told Zelensky, ‘Don’t tell us how to feel!’ after the Ukrainian leader expressed gratitude for U.S. assistance.
The meeting was intended to discuss a deal involving rare earth minerals between the U.S. and Ukraine. Despite the heated exchange, Vice President J.D. Vance has continued pushing for the agreement. Meanwhile, Zelensky attended EU negotiations the following day, further complicating the situation.