US President Donald Trump recently held phone calls with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He announced that negotiations to end the war in Ukraine would start “immediately” and a ceasefire is expected soon.
Trump said he spoke with Zelensky and they discussed setting up a meeting at the Munich Security Conference on Friday. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the US delegation.
However, Trump’s comments sparked criticism from several politicians. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said it was unrealistic for Ukraine to regain its 2014 borders in any negotiations with Russia and that NATO membership is off the table.
US Senator Richard Blumenthal called Hegseth’s statement a “surrender & betrayal” of Ukraine. He argued that this message would abandon Ukraine and undermine European security. Blumenthal has visited Ukraine six times during the conflict and said Ukrainians have shown unquenchable courage.
US Representative Don Bacon shared similar concerns, urging the US to recognize who started the war and who is responsible for the indiscriminate bombing of cities. He emphasized that rewarding the invader would have consequences.
US Senator Adam Schiff criticized Trump’s call with Putin before calling Zelensky. He said this represents a willingness to appease Russia over Ukraine.
European leaders also expressed strong opinions on Trump’s comments. Former European Council President Donald Tusk said, “All we need is peace. A JUST PEACE.” Estonian politician Marko Mihkelson urged European leaders to take action now and not let the situation get worse.
EU diplomat Kaja Kallas reaffirmed Ukraine’s territorial integrity and stressed that Europe must have a central role in strengthening Ukraine and providing security guarantees in any negotiations.
Zelensky, along with US officials, will attend the Munich Security Conference from February 14-16. A potential peace negotiation is expected to be the main focus of their discussions.
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