Washington, June 25: U.S. President Donald Trump recently expressed strong support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, praising his steadfastness against Russia. Trump described Zelensky as courageous during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House.
When asked if he believes Ukraine is winning the fight against Russia, Trump responded, “Well, he’s doing quite well. Look at it any way you want, he’s doing quite well. At least he’s holding his ground.”
Trump acknowledged the heavy human toll of the ongoing conflict, stating, “Many people are dying on both sides.” He commended Ukraine’s military capabilities and its soldiers, saying, “You have to say they are brave. They not only have great equipment, but they also have great fighters.”
This discussion took place as Trump and Rutte prepared for the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara next month, where continued support for Ukraine is expected to be a key topic. Rutte noted that Ukraine’s battlefield situation has improved significantly in recent months, crediting ongoing U.S. assistance for helping Kyiv confront the Russian military.
After the White House meeting, Rutte told the media, “Ukraine has been performing much better over the last five or six months. And thank you for all the help the U.S. is providing.”
During their Oval Office meeting, Rutte praised Trump’s leadership on international security issues, highlighting his guidance on both Iran and Ukraine. He stated, “You have been a leader of the free world.”
Regarding Ukraine, Rutte emphasized that the U.S. continues to provide essential support, noting that European and Canadian allies are also contributing to the costs. He stressed the importance of maintaining support for Ukraine in the fight.
Rutte also mentioned that discussions at the upcoming NATO summit will focus on strengthening defense industrial production to ensure allies can replenish stocks while supporting Ukraine. He said, “We need interceptors, missiles, tanks, and artificial intelligence.”
Later, speaking outside the West Wing, the NATO Secretary General reiterated that Ukraine remains a vital priority for the alliance. Rutte remarked, “We have a lot to discuss. We did this in a very good atmosphere, and I look forward to the summit.”
He added that NATO aims to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine. The NATO summit is scheduled for July 7-8 in Ankara, focusing on implementing last year’s agreements, which include commitments from allied nations to invest 5% of GDP in defense and security by 2035, strengthen defense industrial production, and provide ongoing support to Ukraine. NATO leaders have also emphasized that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons.
NATO leaders have repeatedly stated that continuous military aid is essential to strengthen Kyiv’s position in any future negotiations.
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