Ioana Dorhoi, PhD – Government Relations and Public Affairs

February 19, 2025

The Trump administration has signaled a dramatic shift in its approach to the Ukraine conflict, opting to engage Russia directly without involving the European Union or Ukraine in key negotiations. In a controversial move, high-ranking U.S. and Russian officials met in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss the future of Ukraine, without extending an invitation to Ukrainian representatives. This unilateral approach represents a stark departure from the multilateral diplomatic efforts that characterized previous U.S. administrations.

Trump Calls Zelensky a “Dictator”

A new low in U.S.-Ukraine relations was reached when President Donald Trump, for the first time, publicly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a “dictator.” This unprecedented statement, made during a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, echoes Russian narratives and raises concerns about the administration’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty. Trump also suggested that Ukraine should have avoided war in the first place—a claim that contradicts the widely accepted understanding that Russia launched an unprovoked invasion in February 2022.

The Riyadh Meetings: Ukraine and EU Sidelined

The decision to exclude Ukraine and European allies from discussions in Riyadh has sparked criticism and uncertainty regarding the future of Western support for Kyiv. Trump’s approach appears to prioritize a swift resolution to the conflict, but at what cost? By sidelining Ukraine, the administration risks legitimizing Russian demands and undermining Kyiv’s ability to negotiate its own fate.

J.D. Vance Warns Zelensky Against Criticizing Trump

Adding to the diplomatic tension, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance issued a stark warning to President Zelensky, advising him against publicly criticizing Trump. In an interview with conservative outlets, Vance stated that attacking Trump in the media was “a terrible way to deal with this administration” and could weaken Ukraine’s standing with its most crucial ally. His remarks came after Zelensky accused Trump of being trapped in a “Russian disinformation bubble”—a claim that the administration vehemently denies.

Vance also doubled down on the administration’s demand that Ukraine hold presidential elections, insisting that this was now official U.S. policy. He dismissed concerns about the feasibility of elections during wartime, arguing that if Ukraine’s war is truly about defending democracy, then organizing elections should be a priority. This stance places additional pressure on Zelensky’s government, which has struggled to balance wartime governance with democratic processes.

A New Era for U.S.-Ukraine Relations?

The Trump administration’s latest moves mark a turning point in U.S.-Ukraine relations. By questioning Zelensky’s legitimacy, excluding Ukraine from crucial negotiations, and pressuring Kyiv to hold elections, the White House is reshaping the dynamics of Western support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia stands to benefit from the fractures emerging between Ukraine and its allies.

For Ukraine, these developments pose significant challenges. Without full U.S. backing, Kyiv may find itself increasingly isolated, forced to make difficult concessions in any potential peace talks. As Trump continues to push for a swift resolution, the question remains: Will Ukraine be left to fend for itself, or will European allies step up to fill the void left by Washington’s shifting priorities?