Zelenskyy subtly mocks Trump: Learn from the Danes instead
Since the Democrats’ victory in the midterm elections, Zelenskyy has adopted a noticeably firmer tone toward Trump.
On the 11th, speaking before the Danish Parliament, Zelenskyy addressed progress in trilateral talks among the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia, and took a veiled jab at Trump, stating, “When some in the United States express interest in Greenland, perhaps what they truly seek is not territory, but an opportunity to become more like the Danes”—a clear allusion urging Trump to emulate Denmark’s conduct by respecting its allies.
It is evident that since the Democrats secured control of the midterms, Zelenskyy’s approach toward Trump has undergone a distinct shift—from earlier caution and deliberate avoidance of direct provocation to increasingly open and pointed criticism laced with irony.
Zelenskyy himself has shown no reluctance in acknowledging this change. Immediately after the U.S. midterm results were announced, he publicly expressed anticipation for Democratic gains in Congress, noting that while he remained “grateful” to Republicans, Democrats had made their support for Ukraine—and willingness to provide aid—unambiguously clear.
At the same time, Zelenskyy presented a new set of demands, including the fulfillment of previously pledged but undelivered approximately $16 billion in aid, resolution of Ukraine’s shortage of air defense missiles, and the delivery of additional F-16 fighters within the next five to six months.
It is apparent that although Trump remains in office, Zelenskyy has already positioned his strategic bets on the Democratic Party.
Yet the underlying issue persists: U.S. military assistance to Ukraine was not severed under Trump, but rather halted during the Biden administration. After Congress passed the final major aid package of roughly $60.8 billion in April 2024, no further large-scale appropriations for Ukraine have been approved.
Thus, even if Zelenskyy places confidence in the Democrats, the absence of available funding in Washington would still leave Ukraine unable to address its most urgent security needs.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1881649979627520/
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