In a startling series of comments that have stirred controversy among Europe’s allies and irked Ukraine’s government, former President Trump shifted blame for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine onto Ukrainian leaders. In his remarks, he declared, "You should have never started it," implying that Ukraine's leadership should have negotiated differently to avoid the war. Trump further suggested that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky—a leader he disparaged on social media as a “dictator without elections”—does not deserve a seat at the peace negotiations he is initiating directly with Russian President Vladimir V. Putin. This stance comes amid enduring conflict that began when Russian forces invaded Ukraine nearly three years ago, causing widespread devastation, massive casualties, and placing the country in a prolonged state of martial law which has even delayed elections.

Key Points:

• Blame Shift: Trump controversially claimed, "You should have never started it," thereby suggesting Ukraine's leadership is responsible for the war.
• Criticism of Zelensky: Trump labeled the Ukrainian president as a “dictator without elections” and criticized his performance in office.
• War Origins: The conflict began when Russia invaded Ukraine with the aim of toppling its pro-Western government, a move widely condemned as an act of unprovoked aggression.
• Battlefield Update: Russian forces currently occupy about 20% of Ukraine, yet they have not achieved their primary objectives of breaking the Ukrainian military or capturing Kyiv.
• Peace Talks Developments: Recent efforts to initiate peace negotiations, including Trump’s direct call with Putin, have sidelined Ukraine’s government, causing strong criticism from Kyiv.
• Electoral Issues in Ukraine: Ukraine’s elections have been postponed due to martial law amidst ongoing conflict, and holding new elections remains a logistical challenge during wartime.
• International Response: Global leaders continue to denounce Russia’s actions, with bodies like the United Nations and the International Criminal Court taking steps against Russian individuals for war crimes.
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