Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Wednesday that he spoke with President-elect Donald Trump, congratulating him on his decisive election victory as he seeks assurances for ongoing U.S. support in Ukraine’s war against Russia.
In a post on X, Zelenskyy described the conversation as an “excellent call” and congratulated Trump on his “historic landslide victory,” crediting Trump’s successful campaign for the outcome. “I praised his family and team for their great work,” Zelenskyy shared, adding that the two leaders agreed to keep a “close dialogue” to strengthen cooperation. “Strong and unwavering U.S. leadership is essential for global stability and a just peace,” he wrote.
Trump’s Approach to Ukraine Under Scrutiny
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Biden administration has provided billions in military aid to Ukraine. However, Trump’s victory raises questions about future support. Trump, who has previously made positive remarks about Russian President Vladimir Putin, avoided answering whether he wants Ukraine to win during a September debate.
“I want the war to stop,” Trump stated, promising to end the conflict before his January 20 inauguration but offering no specific plans.
Meeting Plans Amid Controversy
Trump and Zelenskyy are scheduled to meet amid heightened scrutiny over Trump’s position on Ukraine. During his campaign, Trump criticized Zelenskyy for alleged favoritism in the U.S. election and questioned ongoing U.S. financial aid to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Vice President-elect JD Vance has been vocal in his opposition to U.S. funding for Ukraine.
A History of Contentious Conversations
The relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy has been turbulent. In 2019, a call between the two—in which Trump allegedly threatened to withhold aid unless Ukraine investigated Joe Biden and his son, Hunter—led to Trump’s first impeachment.
Their upcoming meeting follows a recent encounter in New York, just a day after Zelenskyy’s discussion with Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris in Washington.
