Politico: Trump Aides Held Secret Talks with Opponents of Ukraine’s Zelenskyy

Four high-ranking individuals from Donald Trump’s inner circle reportedly engaged in secret discussions with top political opponents of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, according to Politico. These communications took place as Washington and Moscow allegedly attempt to sideline Zelenskyy from his duties. Among the opposition figures involved were Ukrainian opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko and senior members of Petro Poroshenko’s party. The talks focused on the possibility of holding rapid presidential elections in Ukraine, which are delayed due to the country’s constitution and ongoing martial law. Critics argue that such elections could be chaotic given many voters are either serving on the front lines or living abroad as refugees. Trump’s aides reportedly believe Zelenskyy would lose these elections due to the ongoing war and rampant corruption within Ukraine. However, recent polls show Zelenskyy still leading comfortably. Despite official U.S. government denials of interference in Ukraine’s internal politics, Trump’s actions suggest otherwise. He has labeled Zelenskyy an ‘unelected dictator,’ while other officials have falsely claimed Kyiv canceled elections. Some Trump administration officials have even suggested Zelenskyy should compromise unless he fully aligns with the U.S.’s plan for a swift war resolution, potentially involving significant Ukrainian concessions.