Zelensky praises ‘real leaders’ in Europe as his relationship with Trump deteriorates

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky lauded "real leaders" in Europe during a summit in Belgium on Friday, subtly criticizing US President Donald Trump amidst strained diplomatic ties between Kyiv and Washington. As European leaders stand by Ukraine following Washington's pressure to cease strikes on Russian oil facilities, the conflict continues with Russia attacking Ukrainian energy infrastructure.

Ukraine halted strikes on Russian oil refineries for three days following Trump's surprise announcement of an "energy ceasefire," but resumed after Russia failed to reciprocate. Trump, seeking to alleviate rising global diesel prices before midterm elections, brokered a deal permitting Russian diesel exports, which Zelensky described as a betrayal.

The US president accused Zelensky of being "more difficult to deal with than Putin" in a recent interview, only later stating he had a "good" relationship with his Ukrainian counterpart. At the summit, Zelensky didn't comment on the deteriorating US-Ukraine relations but emphasized his strong bond with the EU. However, difficulties persist, with restrictions on Starlink internet service hampering logistics and protection for Ukrainian troops.

Trump denied involvement in the Starlink disruption, insisting it was not him or SpaceX. The Ukrainian government reported not receiving early warnings from the US before a Russian missile struck a power plant in Kyiv, but Trump claimed the US continued sharing intelligence. Zelensky also revealed Ukraine had exhausted its supply of US-made Patriot missiles, a critical asset for defending against Russian strikes.

When asked if Trump was using Ukraine as a scapegoat for his own issues, Zelensky remained silent for 15 seconds before responding, "This is my answer."