Trump criticizes Zelenskyy as U.S. limits Ukraine's intelligence and technology support
President Donald Trump accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of hindering peace efforts while the United States has restricted certain intelligence sharing and technology that Ukraine relies on in its conflict with Russia.
President Donald Trump intensified his public dispute with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, accusing the Ukrainian leader of not helping to end the war and suggesting that a different negotiator might be needed. The remarks came as Washington has placed limits on Ukraine's access to critical technology and certain intelligence feeds that support its air-alert system.
Zelenskyy told a recent interview that the United States provides unique intelligence on Russian ballistic missile launches, noting that the sharing had been temporarily halted but later restored. He expressed gratitude for the resumed flow of information.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking in Uzbekistan, denied any U.S. restriction on intelligence, stating that there has been no pause in the sharing of data with Ukraine.
The dispute occurs amid ongoing Russian drone and missile attacks on Kyiv, which have damaged civilian infrastructure, including a shopping mall and a school. Ukrainian officials say the reduced access to U.S. technology, such as speed caps on SpaceX-provided drone systems, hampers their ability to intercept Russian attacks and conduct offensive operations.
"We've given a lot to Ukraine. They've given us nothing," President Trump said.
"Zelenskyy is not helping matters much. I think he doesn't want to stop it. I think it's time for somebody else to negotiate on behalf of Ukraine," Trump added.
"I don't know where he's getting these things from or why he's saying these things to the press. There's been no pause," Secretary Rubio responded when asked about the alleged intelligence restriction.
Trump also indicated he might meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month to discuss arms control, stating the meeting would not be primarily for Ukraine's benefit.
The escalating rhetoric underscores tensions between the United States and Ukraine over the level of support provided as the war continues.