Trump expresses trust in Putin and criticizes Zelensky over elections during war

Donald Trump has stated he "trusts" Vladimir Putin and labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a "dictator" for not holding elections during the ongoing war. This marks a shift in Trump's rhetoric, as he previously supported Ukraine against Russia. Zelensky's rivals in Ukraine have rejected Trump's call for elections, emphasizing that conducting them during wartime is impossible and immoral. Ukraine has been under martial law since Russia's invasion in February 2022, which has delayed elections. Trump's comments have drawn criticism, with Zelensky asserting that Trump is misinformed. Ukrainian leaders, including opposition figures, have united in support of Zelensky, defending his leadership amid the conflict.