European leaders set to urge Zelensky to temper criticism of Trump
European leaders are expected to urge Volodymyr Zelensky to moderate his public criticism of Donald Trump, concerned that it could worsen strained relations between Kyiv and Washington. The discussion is due at a Brussels meeting, where officials reportedly plan to deliver their message with empathy but firmness.
Zelensky criticised US decisions to ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports, announce an energy ceasefire and restrict intelligence sharing and Starlink services. He also accused Trump of admiring autocratic leaders. European Council President Antonio Costa and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz voiced support for Ukraine and called for continued pressure on Russia. After pausing energy strikes for three days, Ukraine resumed attacks on Russian oil facilities; a strike in Ryazan caused a refinery fire.
- EU leaders plan to urge Zelensky to temper criticism of Trump.
- Zelensky condemned changes to US support and policy towards Russia.
- European leaders reaffirmed support for Kyiv as Ukraine resumed energy strikes.
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Ukraine has relied on the United States for military aid and intelligence since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Donald Trump, the US president, has taken decisions affecting sanctions on Russia and forms of support for Ukraine, while Volodymyr Zelensky is Ukraine’s president.
European governments have backed Ukraine and supported pressure on Russia, but they also have an interest in keeping Kyiv’s relationship with Washington workable. Antonio Costa, president of the European Council, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz are among the European leaders involved in discussions about that support.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
European leaders have a case for urging Zelensky to moderate his public criticism: Kyiv depends heavily on US military and diplomatic support, and a public dispute could make that support less reliable when Ukraine faces intense pressure from Russia. A careful, private approach may preserve room to influence Washington while European allies continue backing Ukraine and pressing Moscow.
The case against
Zelensky has a case for speaking plainly about US decisions that affect Ukraine’s security, including changes to sanctions, intelligence sharing and Starlink access. Public criticism can make those consequences visible to Ukrainians and other allies, and restraint could be seen as accepting decisions that weaken Ukraine or blur the distinction between the aggressor and the country defending itself.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “EU leaders to tell Zelensky to tone down his public criticism of Trump over fears he is wrecking relationship”.