Photo: Depositphotos
In a new interview with The Time published on 25 April, US President Donald Trump repeated his controversial statements about the causes of the war in Ukraine and the future of Crimea. He again accused Ukraine of provoking the conflict by seeking to join NATO and recognised Crimea as part of Russia.
In an interview recorded on 22 April, Trump expressed his belief that it was Kyiv’s desire to join the North Atlantic Alliance that was the “impetus” for Russia’s invasion.
“I think the reason this war started was because they started talking about joining NATO,” the American leader said.
This is not the first time that Trump has tried to put the blame for the Kremlin’s aggression on Ukraine itself. He has previously hinted that it was Kyiv’s actions that were the “provoking factor”. This time, he referred to Ukraine’s request to buy Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems, saying that it was Ukraine that “started the war”.
His statement on Crimea was a real shock:
“Crimea will stay with Russia,” Trump said, effectively confirming that he does not see the peninsula as Ukrainian territory.
Despite the provocative nature of these theses, The Time does not provide full quotes, only generalised formulations and short statements.
In addition to Ukraine, Trump also referred to his presidency, saying that he now feels “less constrained” and “more confident” in his actions:
“Last time I was fighting for survival. This time I am fighting for peace,” he said.
He also boasted that European countries had increased defence spending during his term in office.
Context: Such statements are a cause for concern among Ukraine’s allies, as Trump is the main contender for the Republican presidential nomination in the 2024 elections. His stance could significantly change the US course in supporting Kyiv, which is worrying in Washington, Brussels and, of course, Ukraine.
Source: The Time
