House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his disapproval of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s conduct towards President Trump during a recent public address. Johnson, representing Louisiana, voiced concerns about Zelensky’s actions and criticized Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s trustworthiness.
In a statement to NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Johnson, 53, condemned Zelensky’s behavior during the Oval Office meeting, where he failed to show gratitude for the US’s support and instead engaged in a contentious exchange with Trump. Johnson suggested that if Zelensky does not reconsider his approach and apologize to the US president, alternate leadership in Ukraine may be necessary.
The confrontation between Trump and Zelensky occurred after disagreements over the handling of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with Zelensky challenging Vice President JD Vance’s proposed diplomatic strategies. Following the meeting, Trump dismissed Zelensky from the White House, and no agreements were reached as expected.
While Johnson has previously opposed aid to Ukraine, he recently supported a substantial aid package for the country. Despite differences within his party, Johnson emphasized the need for Ukraine to acknowledge US assistance and expressed disappointment in Zelensky’s conduct.
Addressing the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Johnson emphasized the importance of diplomatic efforts and criticized Putin as an untrustworthy figure with a communist and KGB background. He reiterated his party’s stance against Russian aggression and underscored the urgency of resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
Facing internal pressures from Republicans in the House regarding Ukraine, there has been a clear shift in perspective. “The way I view this is that China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea have formed a new axis of powers, and they are not aligned with America,” stated one official. “Let’s be absolutely clear about that. It’s crucial to proceed cautiously in these dangerous times on the global stage.”
In a marked departure from the Biden administration’s stance, former President Trump is now positioning himself as a more neutral mediator between the conflicting nations, rather than unequivocally supporting Ukraine. “President Trump’s message was straightforward: ‘Trust but verify’,” noted a commentator in reference to negotiations between the US and Russia to resolve the conflict. “He is striving to serve as a catalyst for change, facilitating peace and resolution.”
Some Republicans have expressed unease regarding Trump’s and Vance’s interactions with Zelensky on a recent occasion. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska openly voiced her distress, stating, “I am sick to my stomach” about the situation. “Senator Murkowski’s perspective on this matter is clearly misguided,” responded another official. “It was President Zelensky who walked away from the negotiation table.”
“Rather than showing appreciation, President Zelensky chose to interrupt and criticize his hosts at a critical juncture for his nation. He should have been eager, in my opinion, to finalize this agreement,” continued the official, referring to the contentious mineral rights deal.
