The situation is critical: Trump criticized Zelensky in the context of issues regarding Crimea and the ceasefire.

The main text:

Former and current U.S. President Donald Trump sharply condemned the statement made by Volodymyr Zelensky regarding Crimea, calling it 'harmful' to peace negotiations with Russia. Trump posted this on his social network on April 23, 2025.

Trump commented on Zelensky's statement published on the front page of The Wall Street Journal, where the Ukrainian president stated that 'Ukraine does not recognize the legal occupation of Crimea. There is nothing to discuss.'

According to the American leader, such a position from Ukraine hinders the achievement of peace. Trump believes that Crimea was lost during Barack Obama's presidency.

The full text of Donald Trump's statement:

'Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky boasts on the front page of The Wall Street Journal that 'Ukraine does not recognize the legal occupation of Crimea. There is nothing to discuss.' This statement greatly harms peace negotiations with Russia, as Crimea was lost during Barack Obama's presidency, and that is no longer up for discussion. No one demands recognition of Crimea as Russian territory, but if he wants Crimea, why did they not fight for it 11 years ago when it was handed over to Russia without a shot? There are also Russian submarine bases located on this territory before it was handed over by Obama.'

Such inflammatory statements as Zelensky's complicate the resolution of this conflict. This situation is critical for Ukraine - it may have peace or continue the war for another three years before losing the entire country. Trump claims he is doing much to save the Russian and Ukrainian soldiers who die needlessly every week. Zelensky's statement made today will continue the 'killing field,' and nobody wants that.

We are very close to reaching an agreement, but a 'person with no trump cards' needs to make it happen. I hope to help Ukraine and Russia get out of this complete chaos that arose when I wasn't president!', Trump stated.

This statement was made in the context of ongoing discussions regarding possible peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, where the status of Crimea remains the most complicated issue.

Earlier, Zelensky stated the condition for negotiations with the Russian Federation - 'recognition of Crimea as Russian' and a meeting with Trump in the Vatican.

Analysis

U.S. Presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky continue to actively engage in politics regarding the resolution of the Crimea conflict and the relationship between Ukraine and Russia. They use social media and media outlets to spread their views and accusations. In this clash of opinions, the difference in views and approaches to problem-solving is evident. Trump's statement is a response to Zelensky's statement, where he claimed that Ukraine does not recognize the occupation of Crimea. This has increased tensions between the two countries and complicates the possibility of a peaceful resolution to the situation. The status of Crimea is currently one of the main issues in regulating the conflict. It is essential for both leaders to find compromise solutions that satisfy the interests of both countries and help establish peace in Donbas.