Trump Blasts European Leaders as "Weak" and Suggests Cutting Support for Ukraine

In an extensive interview with Politico, US President Donald Trump harshly criticized European leaders, labeling them as "weak," and warned that European countries are "deteriorating" due to their failure to control immigration or take decisive steps to end the war in Ukraine with Russia.

Pressure on Ukraine:

• Critique of European Inaction: Trump accused European leaders of letting Kyiv "fight until they collapse," claiming they "talk, but they don't get it done" regarding ending the war.

• Call for Concessions: Trump continues to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to agree to a peace deal involving "ceding territory to Moscow" and "cooperation."

• UK Response: British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper countered, stating that she sees "strength" in Europe's defense investments, and noted that Putin is the only one seeking conflict escalation.

• Zelenskyy's Reply: Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine and Europe are working on a peace plan and are ready to present it to "our partners in the United States."

Elections and Alliances:

• Election Call: Trump hinted that Zelenskyy is the main obstacle to peace, stating it is "time" for Ukraine to hold elections, questioning its democracy without them.

• Zelenskyy's Readiness: Zelenskyy responded that he is "ready for elections" and would ask lawmakers to amend the law, suggesting elections could be held within 60 to 90 days with security guarantees. (Elections are currently illegal under martial law).

• US Strategy Warning: The new US National Security Strategy warned of the potential "twilight of civilization" in Europe and questioned the reliability of some allies due to ideological divisions.

• Immigration and Deterioration: Trump praised Hungary and Poland for doing a "very good job" on immigration but stated most European nations are "deteriorating" due to the "disaster" of their immigration policies.