White House officials admit 'we created a monster' with Zelensky as tensions escalate
By isabelle // 2025-02-24
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  • U.S.-Ukraine tensions escalate as White House officials call Zelensky a "monster," citing his relentless demands for aid and refusal to compromise in peace talks with Russia.
  • Trump brands Zelensky a "dictator without elections," accusing him of mismanaging the war and misusing billions in U.S. aid.
  • Zelensky’s rejection of a U.S.-proposed deal for mineral rights and criticism of U.S.-Russia peace talks further strained relations.
  • Zelensky’s refusal to hold elections under martial law has sparked legitimacy concerns, with critics labeling him "illegitimate."
  • The rift raises fears among European allies and questions about the future of U.S. support for Ukraine.
The relationship between the United States and Ukraine has reached a boiling point, with White House officials openly admitting they’ve “created a monster” in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The growing rift, fueled by Zelensky’s relentless demands for U.S. aid and his public clashes with President Donald Trump, has left Washington frustrated and questioning its continued support for a war many believe Ukraine cannot win. The tension reached new heights this week as Trump branded Zelensky a “dictator without elections” on his Truth Social platform, accusing the Ukrainian leader of mismanaging the conflict with Russia and misusing billions in American aid. “A Dictator without Elections, Zelenskyy better move fast or he is not going to have a Country left,” Trump wrote, adding that Zelensky had “talked the United States of America into spending $350 Billion Dollars, to go into a War that couldn't be won.” The war of words underscores a deeper frustration within the Trump administration, which has grown weary of Zelensky’s perceived ingratitude and his refusal to compromise in peace negotiations with Russia.

Zelensky’s missteps and U.S. frustration

According to a recent Axios report, White House officials have grown increasingly exasperated with Zelensky’s behavior, describing him as an “actor who committed a common mistake of theater kids: He started to think he's the character he plays on TV.” One official bluntly stated, “Yes, he has been brave and stood up to Russia. But he would be six feet under if it wasn't for the millions we spent, and he needs to exit stage right with all the drama.” The frustration stems from a series of incidents over the past two weeks that have angered Trump and his administration. On February 12, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent traveled to Kyiv to propose a deal granting the U.S. access to Ukrainian mineral rights in exchange for de facto protection. Zelensky reportedly delayed the meeting, prompting Trump to call him “rude.” Days later, at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky surprised U.S. officials by rejecting the deal, claiming it was “not in the interests of a sovereign Ukraine.” The final straw came when Zelensky criticized U.S.-Russia peace talks in Saudi Arabia, which excluded Ukrainian representatives. Trump responded by accusing Zelensky of starting the war and having a 4% approval rating.

A dictator without elections

Trump’s characterization of Zelensky as a “dictator without elections” has added fuel to the fire. Zelensky, whose term technically expired in May 2024, has refused to hold elections, citing martial law due to the ongoing conflict. Critics argue this undermines his legitimacy, with Russian officials also labeling him “illegitimate.” The U.S. administration has grown increasingly skeptical of Zelensky’s leadership, with one official telling Axios, “We created a monster with Zelensky.” The sentiment reflects a broader concern that Zelensky’s constant demands for aid and his refusal to compromise are diverting resources from other pressing U.S. priorities.

A fractured alliance

The rift between Washington and Kyiv has left European allies nervous, fearing Trump may “give away more” in negotiations with Russia. Meanwhile, Zelensky’s advisors are urging him to tone down his rhetoric and avoid further provocation. As the war drags on, the U.S. is left questioning whether its support for Ukraine aligns with its national interests. With Trump openly criticizing Zelensky and White House officials admitting they’ve “created a monster,” the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations hangs in the balance. Zelensky’s next move could determine whether Ukraine retains its most powerful ally—or finds itself standing alone. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com RMX.news RT.com ForeignPolicy.com
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