During a conversation with SPIEGEL, the German Chancellor expressed pointed criticism of the US President in response to his remarks regarding Ukraine. Former American Vice President Mike Pence expressed a definitive position.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has firmly dismissed US President Donald Trump’s assertion that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is a “dictator.”
“Denying President Zelenskyy democratic legitimacy is not only incorrect but also poses a significant risk,” the SPD politician stated in an interview with SPIEGEL on Wednesday evening. “Indeed, Volodymyr Zelenskyj holds the position of the elected leader of Ukraine.” Holding proper elections amidst a war aligns with the stipulations set forth in the Ukrainian constitution and electoral laws. “No one should assert anything different,” stated Scholz.
The Chancellor emphasised that it was Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, that initiated the conflict in Ukraine. For nearly three years, Ukraine has been standing firm against an unrelenting war of aggression from Russia. “Day after day,” remarked Scholz.
On Wednesday, Trump referred to Zelensky as a dictator in a post on his platform, Truth Social. “Without the checks of elections, Zelensky must move swiftly; otherwise, he risks losing his nation,” stated the Republican. Meanwhile, discussions with Russia regarding the cessation of hostilities will persist.
Mike Pence: “Mr. President, Ukraine did not initiate this conflict.”
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens) firmly dismissed Trump’s remarks. “That is utterly ridiculous,” Baerbock stated to ZDF. “If you take a moment to observe beyond the rapid tweets, you will recognise the harsh reality faced by those living under dictatorial regimes in Europe: the citizens of Russia and Belarus.” Baerbock stated that the Ukrainians engage in daily battles for their democratic freedom. “As members of the European community, we stand in solidarity with them on their journey towards EU membership, aiming to strengthen our democracies collectively.”
In a notable response, Trump’s former Vice President Mike Pence stated, “Mr. President, Ukraine did not ‘start’ this war.” The invasion by Russia, lacking any justification, has resulted in the tragic loss of hundreds of thousands of lives. “The journey towards peace requires a foundation of truth,” he stated on X.
The statement made by Trump was also condemned by the UN. In a statement from New York, Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for Secretary-General António Guterres, affirmed: “President Zelenskyy is in office following the duly held elections.”
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