Over three years of war, Ukraine’s initial unity had started to wear thin, as old frictions and political spats reemerged.
Against long odds, Ukrainians – with massive military support from the U.S. – have prevented Russia from overtaking their country, even if roughly one fifth of it is now under Russia control.
Hundreds of thousands have been killed or wounded, tens of thousands are missing, and millions have fled the country.
But Vice President JD Vance admonished Zelenskyy for publicly warning Trump about falling for Russian disinformation.
On Wednesday, Trump echoed one of Putin’s frequent talking points, claiming Zelenskyy, whose term expired last year, must hold elections.
“Holding elections now would only benefit the Kremlin, further dividing Ukrainians and installing a new president who could sign a deal favorable to Moscow.”.
Around 800,000 Ukrainians are currently serving in the armed forces, making it difficult for them to cast ballots without weakening the military. »
