Trump Aide Urges Ukraine to ‘Tone Down’ US Criticism Amid Russia’s NATO Warning

A close aide to Donald Trump has advised Ukraine to soften its criticism of the US, as Russia warns against NATO troop deployments in the ongoing conflict.

White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz has stated that Ukraine should moderate its criticism of the United States and proceed with a minerals agreement advocated by President Trump.

Recently, President Trump referred to President Volodymyr Zelensky as a “dictator” and asserted that Russia possesses significant leverage in peace discussions due to its territorial gains.

In response, Zelensky accused the US president of being influenced by a “disinformation space” orchestrated by Russia.

According to analysis by Anthony Zurcher, Trump appears to be aligning with Russian narratives regarding the conflict and the Ukrainian president, following a recent extensive conversation with Putin.

Simultaneously, the Kremlin has reiterated its stance that the deployment of NATO troops to Ukraine would be “unacceptable.” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed his willingness to consider troop deployment as part of any peace agreement.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey, currently visiting Norway after a new defence agreement was established, emphasized, “This war began when Russia invaded a sovereign nation. It could conclude today if President Putin withdrew his forces from Ukraine.”

Trump has faced backlash for labeling Zelensky a “dictator,” yet Healey remains steadfast in his support for the Ukrainian leader.

Healey recounted his visit to meet Zelensky on his second day in office, highlighting the leader’s “dedication to his nation.” He remarked, “He is the elected leader of Ukraine, and he has made sacrifices similar to those of Winston Churchill during World War II by suspending elections in wartime.”

“Our responsibility is to stand with the Ukrainians, support them in their struggle, and assist them in negotiations if they choose to engage in dialogue.”

“It is in the interests of President Trump and the United States to achieve a lasting peace.”