European leaders have expressed their support for Ukraine following Trump's heated argument with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. Several leaders, including the leaders of Germany, France, Spain, Poland and the Netherlands, have posted on social media in support of Ukraine. Zelensky responded to them and thanked them.
Zelensky has now arrived in London, where he will attend a summit hosted by British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Downing Street said Starmer maintained his “unwavering support for Ukraine.”
The visit was set against the backdrop of a highly heated White House situation, with US President Trump pressuring Zelensky to make a deal with Russia or he would stop supporting Ukraine. At one point, Trump told Zelensky, “If you don’t understand our support, we’re going to get out.”
Zelensky leaves the White House after clashing with Trump
European leaders were quick to show their support for Ukraine after Trump's behavior. French President Emmanuel Macron said, "One aggressor: Russia. One victim: Ukraine. We were right to help Ukraine and punish Russia three years ago, and we will continue to do so."
“The Netherlands now supports Ukraine more than ever,” said Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoop. “We want lasting peace and an end to the aggression initiated by Russia.”
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said, “Ukraine, Spain is with you.” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also posted, “Dear Zelensky, dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone.”
In addition, leaders of other countries, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova, Romania, Sweden, Slovenia, and others, have expressed support for Ukraine.
Poland's Tusk and France's Macron were among those posting messages of support to Zelensky
However, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressed support for Trump, writing, "Strong men make peace, weak men make war. Today, President Trump courageously stands for peace."
Zelensky posted on social media after the White House debate thanking Trump. “Ukraine needs a just and lasting peace, and we are working towards that goal,” he said.
In an interview, Zelensky said his dispute with Trump “wasn’t good for either side,” but he believes it is possible to restore relations.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said a summit between the US, Europe and allies on Ukraine should be held “as soon as possible”.
Overall, Ukrainian leaders are optimistic about European support, although they know they need stronger support in the fight against Russia.
