President Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office at the White House.
House Speaker Mike Johnson and national security adviser Mike Waltz questioned President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s leadership in Ukraine following a contentious meeting with Trump on Friday.
Johnson expressed concerns on Sunday, indicating that Zelenskyy may struggle to maintain his support among the Ukrainian populace. “Something has to change,” he asserted. “Either he needs to engage constructively or Ukraine requires new leadership to navigate these challenges.”
Waltz, supporting Johnson’s views, referred to historical precedents where leaders struggled to transition nations to post-conflict environments. “It’s unclear whether President Zelenskyy is poised to lead Ukraine toward peace,” he remarked during a CNN appearance.
According to Waltz, any path to peace could involve territorial concessions in exchange for security guarantees, emphasizing the need for European-led solutions.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy agreed to collaborate with British and French leaders on a ceasefire plan, demonstrating continued international support following his meeting with Trump.
Both Johnson and Waltz expressed hopes that Zelenskyy would return to Washington to finalize a deal that would allow the U.S. access to Ukraine’s vital resources in exchange for aid.
Johnson articulated a desire for Zelenskyy to recognize the need for collaboration and to accept potential agreements that could bolster Ukraine’s position.
However, bipartisan pushback emerged regarding suggestions of leadership changes in Ukraine. Senator Bernie Sanders condemned the notion as “horrific,” asserting that Zelenskyy is defending democracy against an invading force.
Senator James Lankford echoed similar sentiments, criticizing calls for foreign leaders’ resignations, stating, “It’s inappropriate to question the leadership of allied nations.”
Representative Mike Lawler labeled the recent meeting as a “missed opportunity” and emphasized the need for both parties to re-engage to strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating stance.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated readiness to reengage in peace discussions when the conditions allow.
