U.S. President Donald Trump distanced himself from his previous statements in which he referred to Ukraine’s President as a “dictator without elections.”
He made the remark on Thursday during a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House, according to a Ukrinform correspondent.
“Did I say that? I can’t believe I said that,” Trump responded when asked about his recent claims labeling President Zelensky a “dictator.”
The U.S. President emphasized that he had a very good relationship with Volodymyr Zelensky, though it has recently become “a little strained.” He also mentioned that he looks forward to meeting Zelensky and signing an agreement.
“President Zelensky is coming to see me on Friday morning, and we will be signing a really very important agreement for both sides,” Trump stated.
He added that the U.S. would expand its business presence in Ukraine, which would act as a kind of “backstop.”
The U.S. President also confirmed that he would discuss establishing peace in Ukraine with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
For his part, the British prime minister stated that his country and Europe as a whole would play a full role in ensuring a peace agreement.
“I think this is a historic moment to make sure this is a lasting deal, and we are going to have discussion how we can make it work,” Starmer noted.
As previously reported by Ukrinform, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will visit Washington on Friday. He is expected to meet with President Donald Trump and sign an Agreement Establishing the Rules and Conditions of Investment Fund for the Reconstruction of Ukraine.
Photo: Official White House
Source: Trump on calling Zelensky 'dictator': "I can't believe I said that"
