Trump criticizes Zelensky for rudeness during U.S. envoy's visit to Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of treating Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent "rudely" during his recent visit to Kyiv. Bessent sought a deal for U.S. access to rare earth minerals but returned without an agreement. Trump criticized Zelensky, calling him a "dictator" and claiming he was "sleeping" during Bessent's visit. Zelensky responded by saying Trump was influenced by Russian disinformation, amid concerns over Trump's discussions with Moscow regarding the ongoing war. Bessent's visit on February 12 marked the first trip by a member of Trump's cabinet to Ukraine. The U.S. has previously supported Ukraine with funding and arms, but Trump's stance has raised concerns among Kyiv and its European allies.