Donald Trump, a leading contender for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, recently praised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a skilled negotiator. Trump remarked that Zelensky is adept at securing financial aid from Washington whenever he visits the United States. Trump shared these thoughts during a campaign event in Vandalia, Ohio, emphasizing his belief that the US should offer loans to Kyiv instead of grants.
“We should loan them the money, not send them the money, so that if they do make it – they are against tremendous odds – they pay us back,” Trump said. “Loan them the money, let them be a little bit like they have to be a little nice… Loan them the money, don’t just hand them a check for $60 billion,” he exclaimed.
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“I tell you, Zelensky is one of the greatest salesmen in history. Every time he comes to the country, he walks away with $50 or $60 billion,” Trump said.
“I’ve never been able to do that. He’s a much better salesman than me,” he added.
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Since February 2022, the United States has been a key supporter of Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, offering approximately $113 billion in military, economic, and humanitarian assistance.
Donald Trump, who is expected to challenge President Joe Biden in the upcoming November election, recently criticized NATO countries for their perceived lack of financial responsibility. Trump suggested that these countries “laugh at the stupidity of the United States” for spending so much money on Ukraine, and must “pay their bills.”
Biden is urging Congress to approve a $95 billion foreign aid bill, with over $60 billion allocated for increased military assistance to Ukraine. The president argues that failing to pass this bill could result in further territorial losses for Ukraine to Russia. However, Republican resistance in Congress has hindered the bill’s progress, despite Senate approval.
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Additionally, the Biden administration announced on Tuesday a new military aid package worth $300 million for Ukraine. The White House is also considering seizing approximately $285 billion in Russian assets frozen in 2022 and using these funds to procure weapons for Ukraine.
Donald Trump’s remark on Ukrainian President Zelensky’s negotiating skills underscores ongoing debates over financial aid strategies. With tensions high and congressional hurdles to aid bills, the future of US-Ukraine relations remains a critical issue in global politics.