US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky clashed in a heated exchange during a meeting in the White House on Friday. The confrontation took place in the Oval Office, where the two leaders were expected to sign an agreement related to the US control of Ukraine’s mineral resources. However, the agreement failed to materialize due to the tense situation between them.
Following the altercation, world leaders expressed their views on the incident, with reactions varying across the political spectrum, reports Al Jazeera.
Support for Ukraine:
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese voiced continued support for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of supporting the country against Russian aggression, calling it a fight for democracy.
“We will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, because this is the struggle of a democratic nation versus an authoritarian regime led by Vladimir Putin, who clearly has imperialistic designs, not just on Ukraine, but throughout that region,” he said.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store condemned Trump’s comments, particularly his accusation that Zelensky was gambling with World War III, reaffirming Norway’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
“What we saw from the White House today is serious and disheartening … That Trump accuses Zelenskyy of gambling with World War III is deeply unreasonable and a statement I distance myself from. Norway stands with Ukraine in their struggle for freedom,” He said.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu reiterated that Russia is the aggressor in the conflict and expressed strong solidarity with Ukraine.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the collective European efforts to seek a lasting and just peace for Ukraine, highlighting Germany’s commitment to the country’s sovereignty.
“No one wants peace more than the citizens of Ukraine! That is why we are jointly seeking the path to a lasting and just peace. Ukraine can rely on Germany – and on Europe,” he said.
Swedish Prime Minister’s Office: “Sweden stands with Ukraine. You are not only fighting for your freedom but also for all of Europe’s. Slava Ukraini!”
Estonia Foreign Affairs Minister Margus Tsahkna: “The only obstacle to peace is Putin’s decision to continue his war of aggression. If Russia stops fighting, there will be no war. If Ukraine stops fighting, there will be no Ukraine. Estonia’s support to Ukraine remains unwavering. Time for Europe to step up.”
Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Caspar Veldkamp: “Just spoke to my dear Ukrainian friend and colleague Andrii Sybiha. I reiterated my full support for Ukraine: whatever it takes, for as long as it takes.”
Backing Trump:
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban praised Trump for his call for peace, stating that strong leaders make peace, even if it is hard for some to digest.
“Strong men make peace, weak men make war. Today President @realDonaldTrump stood bravely for peace. Even if it was difficult for many to digest. Thank you, Mr. President!” he said.
Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini also expressed support for Trump, urging an end to the war and advocating for peace.
“Aim for PEACE, stop this war! Come on @realDonaldTrump,” he said.
European Leaders Call for Unity:
Czech President Petr Pavel reaffirmed his country’s stance with Ukraine, encouraging greater European efforts to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured Zelensky of the EU’s continued commitment to Ukraine, praising his bravery and expressing solidarity.
EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas stated that the free world needed a new leader and called for European nations to step up.
Swedish Prime Minister’s Office echoed the sentiment of European solidarity, with a message to Ukraine: "You are fighting not only for your freedom but for all of Europe’s."
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna reiterated Estonia's unwavering support for Ukraine and emphasized that Russia’s war of aggression was the only obstacle to peace.
The exchange between Trump and Zelensky has sparked widespread reactions globally, with many leaders reaffirming their support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom, while others express concerns over the way the confrontation unfolded. As tensions continue, calls for unity and dialogue within the international community are growing louder.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
