Trump would be a 'loser president' if he proposes peace deal that's detrimental to Ukraine: Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he does not yet have a “strategy” for dealing with a potential return of Donald Trump to the White House. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Zelenskyy warned that Trump could risk being seen as a “loser president” if he wins the upcoming election and imposes an unfavorable peace deal on Ukraine, potentially diminishing the US's role as a global leader.

In an interview with The Guardian, Zelenskyy revealed that former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson had approached Trump on his behalf. Zelenskyy expressed concerns that Trump’s re-election could lead to a “crushing military defeat” for Ukraine by cutting off support, weapons, and funds, and by making deals with Kyiv’s partners to halt arms deliveries.

“Ukraine, barehanded, without weapons, will not be able to fight a multimillion [Russian] army,” Zelenskyy told the British news outlet. “Does he want to become a loser president? Do you understand what can happen?” he added.

Trump’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine war has been a topic of discussion. If Trump defeats current US President Joe Biden, he is expected to end the substantial US military support that the Biden administration has provided to Ukraine throughout the conflict. Last year, Trump claimed he could end the Russia-Ukraine war within “24 hours.”

Responding to Trump’s assertions, Zelenskyy predicted that Russian President Vladimir Putin would likely violate any deal brokered by Trump. He referred to any future ceasefire as a potential “trap.”

“This is not about him [Trump] as a person, but about the institutions of the United States. They will become very weak. The US will not be the leader of the world anymore,” Zelenskyy said. “Yes, it will be powerful in terms of the domestic economy, because it has a powerful economy without a doubt. But in terms of international influence, it will be equal to zero,” he added.

When asked if the former British prime minister had spoken to Trump, Zelenskyy confirmed, “I think he tried, and I think he spoke to him. I think so, yes, as far as I know,” he remarked.  am sorry that I am using Boris as an instrument,” he added.

Johnson’s initiative came as Kyiv sought to lobby pro-Trump Republicans in Congress to support Ukraine aid. The $61 billion military aid package was passed in April only after a six-month delay.

Zelenskyy’s statements came just a day before the former US President was found guilty of falsifying business records to hide hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels.