Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated Ukraine did not assist the U.S. in its conflict with Iran, dismissing Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s claims as politically motivated.
Trump Accuses Zelenskyy of Self-Promotion
Donald Trump, in a Friday interview with MS NOW, asserted that Ukraine “did nothing” to help the U.S. during its conflict with Iran. He characterized statements made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as purely for public image.
According to a report by PAP, Trump responded to a question about Ukrainian assistance by saying, “They did nothing. Everything Zelenskyy has said about what Ukraine did to help us is solely for political and image purposes. They did nothing.”
Ukraine Responds, Cites Drone Deployment
Kyiv countered Trump’s claims, stating Ukraine deployed units to intercept drones in five Middle Eastern countries and that the U.S. had requested assistance regarding the conflict with Iran. Zelenskyy also indicated Ukraine proposed a drone intercept agreement to the U.S. last year.
Trump Reiterates Criticism of NATO Allies
During the MS NOW interview, Trump again criticized NATO countries for refusing to send ships to secure the Strait of Hormuz, which is blocked by Iran. He labeled the alliance a “paper tiger” and claimed Vladimir Putin does not fear Europe or its allies.
Journalist Notes Trump’s Preference for Putin
MSNBC’s Ruhle observed that Trump “expressed more confidence in Putin than in any of our European allies.”
Trump Praises Japan, Downplays NATO’s Value
Trump repeated his criticism of NATO in a phone interview with Fox News, while simultaneously praising Japan as a better ally. When asked if Japan would provide military support, given its reliance on oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz, Trump acknowledged Japan’s constitutional limitations but stated, “They will be with us if we need them.”