In a recent interview on ABC This Week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared his thoughts on the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting a surprising hope—Donald Trump.
Zelenskyy expressed that he believes the former U.S. president could play a significant role in bringing an end to the war.
Why Zelenskyy Sees Trump as a Key Influencer
Zelenskyy pointed out that most wars come to a close through agreements that involve strong third-party pressure on the aggressor.
In his view, the U.S. president holds tremendous power and influence that could be decisive in pushing Russia to back down.
“The president of the United States has all the levers and the authority to step in,” Zelenskyy said.
He emphasized that Trump, seen by many as a leader of the free and democratic world, has the potential to unite international partners, especially European leaders, in applying pressure on Moscow.
Calling on the U.S. to Step Up Economic Sanctions
The Ukrainian president also underscored the importance of economic sanctions, saying only America can truly make a difference.
He stressed that without U.S. involvement, sanctions from other countries would lack the necessary impact to influence Russia’s actions.
Zelenskyy’s message was clear: Washington needs to take a stronger stand.
Some Republicans Echo the Call for Tougher Measures
Back in Washington, some Republican lawmakers agree with Zelenskyy’s push for increased pressure on Russia.
Michael McCaul, former chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told FOX News that there is bipartisan support in Congress for a tough stance.
He pointed to Senator Lindsey Graham’s bill, which proposes severe secondary sanctions on nations buying Russian oil and uranium.
“We have to put pressure on Russia,” McCaul said. “Keep weapons flowing to Ukraine and send a message to Putin to negotiate seriously, though I don’t have much faith in him.”
The Controversy Within GOP Ranks
However, not all Republicans see Zelenskyy in a positive light.
Senator Tommy Tuberville from Alabama, a co-sponsor of Graham’s sanctions bill, criticized the Ukrainian leader sharply.
In a radio interview, Tuberville labeled Zelenskyy a dictator and questioned his commitment to
democratic principles during wartime.
He compared the Ukraine conflict to the Vietnam War, emphasizing the devastating human toll and warning about mismanagement of aid funds.
Tuberville expressed concern about missing money and the Biden administration’s handling of the situation, suggesting the conflict has spiraled out of control.
The Human Cost of War and Divided Opinions
Tuberville highlighted the staggering losses on both sides, estimating that between 500,000 and 700,000 people have died, which he said is far worse than the U.S. experience in Vietnam.
His comments reflect a broader debate in Washington about how best to support Ukraine while balancing political and fiscal concerns at home.