Russians Celebrate Trump’s ‘Rebuke’ of Zelensky

MOSCOW, 1 March 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Many Russians in Moscow have welcomed Donald Trump’s confrontation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, expressing optimism that the US leader’s apparent shift towards the Kremlin could help bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

“Frankly speaking, it was very satisfying to see him receive such a rebuke in the White House,” said Galina Tolstykh, a 63-year-old nursery worker, referring to Trump and Vice President JD Vance’s dismissive remarks towards Zelensky during their meeting.

“It feels as though things are finally heading in the right direction,” she added, speaking to AFP in central Moscow.

On Friday, Trump openly criticised Zelensky, accusing him of lacking gratitude for US military aid and being unwilling to negotiate for peace. He later stated that the Ukrainian leader had “disrespected” the United States in its “cherished Oval Office”.

“It was very strange and unflattering for Zelensky as a president,” commented 20-year-old waiter Fyodor.

“It seems to me that this is not the way a national leader should behave,” he added.

During the tense exchange, which was widely reported in both US and international media, Trump warned Zelensky that Ukraine would be left without “cards to play” without US support and accused him of “gambling with World War Three”.

“Trump was absolutely right when he said that Ukraine has no winning cards left,” Fyodor remarked.

“Other than signing a peace agreement or a ceasefire, their options are limited.”

‘Putin is winning’

Anastasia, a 26-year-old waitress, described the public clash as uncomfortable but expressed hope that it could help bring the war to a conclusion.

“It was not a pleasant scene, of course, but overall, we are glad that events seem to be reaching their logical conclusion,” she said.

Russia launched its full-scale military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022, an act that Western leaders widely condemned as unprovoked aggression.

“Frankly, everyone is tired of this war—not just Russia, but the entire world,” said Marchel, a 56-year-old psychologist.

The confrontation between Trump and Zelensky has unsettled many European leaders, who rushed to express their support for Ukraine.

“Europe is probably only now beginning to grasp the full extent of its predicament in the medium to long term without American protection,” said Russian political analyst Konstantin Kalachev.

“So far, it is clear that only Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is emerging as the winner. He appears strong and unwavering while others bicker among themselves,” he added, using the Russian president’s patronymic.

“However, if we consider the long-term perspective, Russia also stands to lose. If a settlement were reached now, the path to peace would be much shorter,” he suggested.

Kyiv had been hoping to finalise an agreement with the United States regarding the joint exploitation of Ukraine’s mineral resources, which it believed would serve as a stepping stone towards securing long-term security guarantees from Washington in its fight against Russia.

Nevertheless, some Russians remain sceptical of Trump’s intentions.

“I do not believe he has suddenly become an ally. He has his own interests at heart,” said Tolstykh.

“He’s a cunning fox,” added 67-year-old retired artist Vitaly Kuragin.

“And what does Russia gain from all this? He is ultimately working for America.”

Additional Context

Trump’s approach to Ukraine has been a source of controversy throughout his political career. During his presidency, he was impeached in 2019 over allegations that he pressured Zelensky to investigate political rival Joe Biden. His stance towards Russia has also been the subject of intense scrutiny, with critics accusing him of being too accommodating towards the Kremlin.

Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to push for stronger security alliances with Western nations, despite uncertainty over long-term US commitments. The ongoing war has devastated large parts of Ukraine, displaced millions, and led to a deepening humanitarian crisis, with global implications for food and energy security.