Elon Musk recently stirred the pot with bold comments about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of running a “fraud machine” that “feeds off the dead bodies of soldiers.”
These remarks only intensify the ongoing conflict between Washington and Kyiv, especially after the White House revealed that President Donald Trump is “very frustrated” with Zelensky’s leadership.
Musk Joins Trump in Criticizing Zelensky Over Elections
Musk echoed Trump’s call for Zelensky to hold an election, claiming that the Ukrainian president avoided doing so because he feared a crushing defeat.
Posting on his social media platform, X, Musk stated, “In reality, he is despised by the people of Ukraine, which is why he has refused to hold an election. I challenge Zelensky to hold an election and refute this.
He will not.” This was followed by Musk’s harsh condemnation of Zelensky, calling him a part of a “disgusting, massive graft machine.”
Support for Zelensky Grows in the UK, Despite Musk’s Criticism
While Musk’s comments drew significant attention, the UK’s political leaders offered their strong backing for Zelensky.
Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer likened Zelensky’s leadership to that of Winston Churchill, stressing the necessity of suspending elections during wartime.
Downing Street echoed this sentiment, drawing parallels to World War II when elections were similarly suspended in the UK.
Trump’s Frustration With Zelensky and U.S. Demands for Ukrainian Resources
Tensions between Trump and Zelensky have also escalated, with Trump expressing concerns over Zelensky’s refusal to hold elections.
The former president claimed that Zelensky’s approval rating had plummeted to just 4%, a figure widely dismissed after a recent poll put Zelensky’s approval at 57%.
Trump also emphasized the U.S.’s role in Ukraine’s survival, calling for Ukraine to repay the significant military and financial aid it has received from the U.S.
Trump’s National Security Advisor Lays Out Demands for Zelensky
Trump’s National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, recently laid out the conditions for Zelensky to regain Trump’s favor.
These include showing more appreciation for U.S. support and negotiating deals on Ukraine’s vast mineral resources.
Waltz expressed frustration with what he described as insults from Kyiv toward Trump, adding that some Ukrainian rhetoric had been “unacceptable.”
Zelensky Rejects Trump’s Mineral Repayment Proposal
A major point of contention between Trump and Zelensky is Ukraine’s valuable mineral resources, which are essential for manufacturing electronics and batteries.
Trump has proposed a repayment plan that would see the U.S. gain access to 50% of Ukraine’s critical minerals.
Zelensky, however, has rejected the deal, stating that it lacked the necessary security provisions to protect Ukraine from Russian aggression.
“I can’t sell our country,” he said firmly, turning down the proposed terms.
Trump’s Mineral Interests Extend Beyond Ukraine to Greenland
Trump’s interest in critical minerals isn’t limited to Ukraine.
His administration has expressed interest in Greenland, which is rich in similar resources.
Waltz explained that the U.S. sees these minerals as vital not only for Ukraine’s security but also for the American taxpayer, noting that the U.S. has already spent billions supporting Ukraine.
Peace Talks Between Russia and Ukraine Exclude Zelensky
As the war continues, Trump has expressed support for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, but with one key exclusion: Zelensky.
The U.S. has recently engaged in peace talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia, but Zelensky has made it clear that he will reject any deal he is not a part of.
Waltz defended Trump’s push for talks, claiming that the conflict in Ukraine is of far greater significance than other global issues.
Trump Criticizes Zelensky for Starting the War with Russia
Trump’s rhetoric has also included sharp criticisms of Zelensky for allegedly starting the war with Russia.
He accused the Ukrainian president of tricking the U.S. into spending $350 billion on a war that could not be won, adding that without U.S. involvement, Zelensky would be unable to end the conflict.
Zelensky has pushed back, calling Trump’s statements part of a “web of disinformation.”
Global Leaders Push for Peace Amidst Escalating Tensions
As tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine rise, global leaders are pushing for peace talks.
French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to meet with Trump to urge him not to be “weak” with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will also meet with Trump this week, as world leaders attempt to navigate the growing crisis.