EU to request Zelenskyy dial back criticism of Trump - FT
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy – Donald Trump (Getty Images)
European leaders plan to urge Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to soften his public criticism of US leader Donald Trump, according to The Financial Times.
According to the FT, a summit of EU leaders is scheduled to take place in Brussels on Friday, October 16.
According to officials familiar with the meeting plans, European politicians intend to discuss the situation with Zelenskyy during closed-door negotiations.
One of the FT's interlocutors described the upcoming message to the Ukrainian president as empathetic but firm.
An official noted that it might be true but that it was not necessary to say it out loud every time, commenting on Kyiv's public rhetoric.
European leaders are forced to adopt this approach due to the instability of transatlantic relations and ongoing Russian attacks against the backdrop of the recent escalation between the US and Ukraine.
Recently, many unexpected issues have arisen in relations between Kyiv and Washington.
The situation escalated after a series of decisions and public statements by the US leadership, which led Ukraine to feel the loss of an important partner and view some actions as a betrayal.
In particular, the US entered into direct agreements with the Kremlin regarding the supply of Russian fuel.
Furthermore, media reports emerged that Donald Trump is preparing a new beneficial offer for Russian leader Vladimir Putin in exchange for adherence to an energy ceasefire.
Against this backdrop, the American side resorted to pressure, threatening to limit cooperation with Ukraine.
Amid these misunderstandings, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that he wants to discuss key problems in relations with American partners and stressed that Ukraine will not compromise its own interests.
