Zelenskyy’s quick criticism of Trump strains Ukrainian-American relations — former U.S. Ambassador

He expressed this opinion on Espreso TV.

"Regarding the war in Ukraine, which is now of particular concern to me, we’ll see how events unfold and how relations between President Zelenskyy and President Trump develop. It seems to me that President Zelenskyy is too quick to criticize Trump and his team. It's not that they don't deserve criticism, but when it comes directly from the head of state, it does not help strengthen Ukrainian-American relations. Other senior Ukrainian officials could voice their concerns without causing the negative effect that occurs when the president himself does it," Herbst explained.

The diplomat noted that criticism of the U.S. president’s administration should come from other officials, not the leader of state.

"Even when Putin dislikes U.S. policy, he doesn’t criticize it directly — instead, other Russian officials do. This is a calculated tactic. It would be wise for President Zelenskyy to view this as practical tactical advice," he added.

• On Saturday, April 26, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska arrived in Rome for the farewell ceremony with Pope Francis.
• On Saturday, April 26, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. President Donald Trump in the Vatican for the first time since their dispute at the White House at the end of February.