Trump views Ukraine as obstacle to Russia relations

President Trump recently expressed a shift in U.S. foreign policy regarding Ukraine, viewing it as an obstacle to his goal of normalizing relations with Russia. This was highlighted during a heated exchange in the Oval Office with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump criticized Zelensky, stating he lacks leverage against Russian President Vladimir Putin. Vice President JD Vance also labeled Zelensky as "disrespectful," indicating a significant deterioration in U.S.-Ukraine relations after three years of wartime partnership. This confrontation marks a departure from traditional U.S. alliances, as Trump seeks to move away from supporting democratic nations and instead focus on great-power negotiations.