Trump Says Zelensky Is ‘Doing Pretty Well’ As Ukraine Continues To Resist Russia
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s handling of the war with Russia, saying the Ukrainian leader has managed to hold his ground despite the prolonged conflict and heavy casualties on both sides.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump acknowledged Ukraine’s resilience in the face of Russia’s invasion and credited both Zelensky and Ukrainian troops for their continued resistance. “He’s doing pretty well. He’s holding his own, at least,” Trump said. “A lot of people dying on both sides, but I think he’s doing pretty well.”
The US president also described Zelensky as courageous and commended the fighting spirit of Ukrainian forces. “You have to say he’s courageous. He’s got great equipment, but he’s got great men, he’s got fighters,” Trump added.
Trump Strikes A More Positive Tone
The remarks represent a softer assessment of Zelensky than some of Trump’s previous comments, in which he questioned Ukraine’s position in the war and suggested the Ukrainian leader lacked the leverage needed to secure victory.
Trump’s latest comments come as Ukraine continues to defend territory against Russian forces while facing regular missile and drone attacks on cities and civilian infrastructure. Military observers say Kyiv has shown an ability to withstand Russian pressure on several fronts, although the conflict continues to exact a significant human and economic toll.
Meeting On Sidelines Of G7 Summit
Trump and Zelensky most recently met during the G7 summit in France, where leaders discussed ways to increase pressure on Russia and advance efforts to end the war, now entering its fifth year. Following the meeting, Zelensky thanked Trump for his engagement on Ukraine and his willingness to support initiatives aimed at bringing peace closer.
The Ukrainian president said he appreciated Trump’s attention to the situation and efforts to help find a path toward ending the conflict.
Fresh Focus On Russian Oil Measures
After the talks, Trump also expressed renewed interest in imposing tougher measures on Russia’s energy sector, particularly oil exports, which remain a key source of revenue for Moscow.
The comments came after the United States previously extended a sanctions waiver covering Russian oil shipments already at sea, a move that had raised concerns among some European allies seeking stronger economic pressure on the Kremlin.
While no major breakthrough emerged from the discussions, Trump’s remarks underscored a more supportive public stance toward Zelensky and Ukraine’s wartime efforts as Western leaders continue to seek ways to end the conflict.
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