Trump Softens Tone Toward Zelensky, Says Ukrainian President Not to Blame for War

President Donald Trump appeared to shift his stance on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying the leader of Ukraine should not be held responsible for Russia’s invasion.

“I don’t believe President Zelensky is to blame for the war,” Trump said on April 17 during a joint press conference with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White House. “But I haven’t been happy with how it started either. I’m not blaming him. I’m just saying his approach hasn’t been the best. I don’t like it.”

The remarks represent a notable change in tone from Trump, who in recent months had accused Ukraine of provoking the conflict with Russia and at one point labeled Zelensky a “dictator” for postponing elections during wartime.

Trump also confirmed that the U.S. and Ukraine are nearing a deal on critical minerals, which could be signed as early as April 24. He expressed hope that Kyiv would “follow through on its commitments.”

Earlier this week, Trump sparked backlash after claiming Zelensky was responsible for the deaths of “millions” of people by triggering the war—an assertion far beyond any death toll cited by Ukraine or international observers.

“You don’t start a war with a country 20 times your size and then expect someone else to give you missiles,” Trump said. He went on to name Zelensky, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and former U.S. President Joe Biden as the three figures he believes bear responsibility for the ongoing conflict.

Despite renewed peace efforts, Russia has ramped up its missile and drone attacks in recent days. Over the weekend, a Russian Iskander missile struck the northern Ukrainian city of Sumy, killing multiple civilians. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the strike targeted a gathering of Ukrainian officers and accused Kyiv of using civilians as “human shields.”

(Sources: AFP, BBC)

Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day.

Are you looking for reliable airport and cruise port transfer services in Los Angeles?

We offer professional, safe, and punctual transportation from

Los Angeles Airport - LAX

Long Beach Airport - LGB

John Wayne Airport - SNA

San Pedro cruise port

Long Beach cruise port

Disneyland

and other destinations.

Let us make your journey stress-free and comfortable with our dedicated drivers and high-quality vehicles. Book now for the perfect travel experience at www.helloshuttle.com or call 944-800-5678!