U.S. President Donald Trump has labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a “dictator without elections.”

He criticized Zelensky’s leadership and suggested that without prompt action, Ukraine might cease to exist.

Trump also accused Zelensky of mishandling U.S. financial aid and questioned the necessity of the ongoing war.

These remarks have drawn sharp criticism from European leaders.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described Trump’s comments as “simply wrong and dangerous,” emphasizing Zelensky’s democratic legitimacy.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson also defended Zelensky, highlighting his democratic election.

Ukrainian officials refuted Trump’s claims, noting that recent polls show 57% of Ukrainian trust Zelensky.

They also pointed out that Ukraine’s constitution prohibits elections during martial law, a measure in place since Russia’s invasion in 2022.

The exchange began when Zelensky accused Trump of being influenced by Russian disinformation, following U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia from which Ukraine was excluded.

Trump’s words have raised concerns about future U.S. support for Ukraine and it have been welcomed by Russian officials further complicating international relations.