Former President Donald Trump has accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of undermining a potential peace deal to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. His suggestion that he might formally recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea has already drawn a tsunami of condemnation. As this news has begun to spread, tensions and frustration have continued to mount.
In a recent post on his Truth Social network, Trump expressed discontent with the ongoing military strikes, stating, “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Let’s get the Peace Deal DONE!” He emphasized that after three years of fierce resistance against an unprovoked invasion, Ukraine deserves to rebuild its armed forces for future conflicts.
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among those who responded in horror to Trump’s statements. He should know, having been their biggest American cheerleader and still by Zelenskyy’s side. During his appearance, Johnson defended Ukraine by focusing on the lack of action. He called on the global community for a long-term, credible, well-funded security guarantee that would deter future, similar atrocities from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Johnson suggested that such a guarantee be undertaken not just by the UK, but the US, and all of the West’s allies.
In his recent article critique of Trump’s proposals, Johnson highlighted a key sticking point, outlining the need to address what Ukraine would get from the proposed terms. He continued, “Other than the privilege of sharing their natural resources with the United States they receive nothing. Realistically, what is there in this agreement that would deter a third Russian invasion? Zero.” He stressed the importance of a comprehensive security guarantee that would insulate Ukraine from future attacks.
Johnson’s statement came on the heels of the most recent Russian airstrikes against civilians in Kyiv. These strikes are some of the most deadly in recent months. Keir Starmer, the leader of the UK Labour Party, criticized these attacks. In particular, he stressed that they make clear that Russia is the aggressor in this war. He stated, “That’s why it’s important to get Russia to an unconditional ceasefire.”
Plus, Johnson just this spring denounced some of Trump’s rhetoric towards Zelenskyy while supporting him in a column for the Daily Mail. He demonstrated that the current war of words between Trump and Zelenskyy was in the first place an unnecessary abuse of power. Like many Americans, he really wanted to believe that Trump had a good plan for peace.
“Putin indiscriminately butchers more Ukrainian civilians, killing and injuring 100 in Kyiv including children,” – Boris Johnson
After many months of inactivity, talks on peace proposals have resumed. Indeed, both Johnson and Starmer underlined the importance of a long-term strategy to guarantee Ukraine’s continued safety and sovereignty in light of the continuing war.