Key facts
- President Donald Trump stated President Volodymyr Zelensky is "doing pretty well" in Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion.
- Trump described Zelensky as resilient and courageous.
- He also praised Ukraine's military and equipment.
- The remarks were made during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
- Trump met with Zelensky on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague on June 24.
President Donald Trump stated on June 24 that President Volodymyr Zelensky is "doing pretty well" in Ukraine's defense against Russia's full-scale invasion, describing the Ukrainian leader as resilient despite the ongoing fighting. Speaking during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump was asked whether he believed Zelensky was winning the war. "He's winning now. Well, he's doing pretty well... At least he's holding on," Trump said, while noting that "a lot of people are dying on both sides." Trump also praised Zelensky's leadership and Ukraine's military, saying, "I have to say he's courageous. He's got great equipment, he's got great people, he's got fighters." The remarks came as Trump met with Zelensky on the sidelines of the NATO summit in The Hague on June 24, where the two leaders discussed efforts to end Russia's war against Ukraine.