Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 03:04pm on 20 Feb 2025,Thursday International
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged US pragmatism after Donald Trump called him a "dictator without elections." Trump is pushing for a quick deal with Russia, excluding Ukraine and European allies from initial talks. Zelensky, addressing Ukrainians, emphasized unity and collaboration with the US and Europe for security. European leaders pledged increased defense spending, while some consider a US-backed peacekeeping force. Trump’s remarks triggered Ukrainian opposition reactions, with ex-PM Yulia Tymoshenko defending Zelensky’s legitimacy. Ukrainian officials insist a ceasefire would enable further Russian aggression, despite intelligence suggesting one may occur this year. Kyiv seeks continued US support.
