Zelenskyy: “Trump Is Living in a Russian Disinformation Bubble”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has criticized U.S. President Donald Trump for echoing Russian disinformation regarding the war in Ukraine.

Speaking at a press conference, Zelenskyy addressed Trump’s recent remarks, including claims about his approval rating and assertions that Ukraine bears responsibility for the war.

Zelenskyy refuted Trump’s statement suggesting that his approval rating in Ukraine is as low as 4%, calling it a “Russian disinformation narrative.” Citing data from the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS), the Ukrainian president stated that his current trust rating stands at 57%. “If someone wants to replace me, it won’t happen immediately,” Zelenskyy said, reaffirming his legitimacy as Ukraine’s leader.

The Ukrainian president expressed concern that Trump “lives in a disinformation bubble,” attributing this to narratives spread by Russia. “Unfortunately, President Trump, with all due respect for him as the leader of a nation that we respect greatly … is living in this disinformation bubble,” he says. He added that Ukraine has evidence that such misleading figures about his popularity are being discussed between Russia and the U.S.

Zelenskyy also rejected any suggestion that Ukraine should make concessions to Russia as part of a potential peace deal. He emphasized that any negotiations must involve both Ukraine and European partners, not just the U.S. and Russia.

The Ukrainian leader criticized the use of the word "conflict" to describe the invasion, stating that it deliberately downplays Russia’s role in the aggression. “This is Russia’s war against us, not a ‘conflict,’” he asserted.

He also responded to ongoing discussions about U.S. support for Ukraine, noting that if Washington were to reduce its assistance, Europe’s role in supporting Ukraine would become even more critical.

Meanwhile, he pointedly rejected a draft U.S. minerals agreement, stating that it was not ready and was developed under U.S. legislation without adequate compensation for Ukraine. “I can’t sell it away. I can’t sell our state,” he said.

As part of his remarks, Zelenskyy called on U.S. officials visiting Kyiv, including U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg, to engage directly with Ukrainian citizens to understand public sentiment regarding Trump’s statements. “Go and talk to ordinary Ukrainians,” he urged, adding that Russia’s attempts to manipulate public perception must be countered with factual information.

The comments come as Ukraine continues discussions with the European Union on securing additional military funding, with Zelenskyy reiterating that NATO remains the strongest security guarantee for Ukraine. Additionally, new rounds of EU sanctions against Russia are expected to be implemented in response to ongoing aggression.

Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected a rare earth deal proposed by the U.S., citing the absence of security guarantees. The draft agreement, delivered by Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff, focused solely on economic terms, demanding Ukraine give up 50% of resources listed. “I cannot sell our state,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing that security must be part of any deal.