Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has directly responded to former US President Donald Trump's recent claim that Ukraine has shown "zero gratitude" for American assistance during the ongoing conflict with Russia. In a carefully worded statement, Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for American support while reaffirming his country's commitment to achieving peace.
The Gratitude Dispute: Zelenskyy's Direct Response
During his daily address on November 24, 2025, President Zelenskyy addressed the comments made by the former American leader. "I want to say thank you to the President of America, to the American people, to both parties, and to Congress," Zelenskyy stated, making his position clear without mentioning Trump by name. This marked his first public response to Trump's criticism that had created diplomatic ripples between the two nations.
The Ukrainian leader emphasized that his country has consistently expressed appreciation for the military, financial, and humanitarian aid received from the United States since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. "We have always been thankful for the support that helps us defend our freedom and territorial integrity," Zelenskyy affirmed during his broadcast.
Reaffirming Commitment to Peaceful Resolution
Beyond addressing the gratitude controversy, President Zelenskyy used the opportunity to reiterate Ukraine's dedication to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict. "Our goal has always been peace, but peace on our terms—one that respects Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he declared. This statement comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to negotiate an end to the war that has stretched for nearly three years.
The Ukrainian president carefully balanced his message of appreciation with a firm commitment to Ukraine's strategic objectives. He acknowledged the complexity of international diplomacy while maintaining that gratitude and national interests are not mutually exclusive concepts. "We remember and appreciate every package of assistance, every weapon that helps our soldiers, every dollar that supports our economy," Zelenskyy noted, providing specific acknowledgment of the forms of support Ukraine has received.
Broader Implications for US-Ukraine Relations
This exchange occurs at a sensitive time in US-Ukraine relations, with ongoing debates in Washington about future funding for Ukraine's war effort. Zelenskyy's response demonstrates his government's awareness of the political dynamics in the United States and the importance of maintaining bipartisan support.
The Ukrainian leader's statement strategically avoided direct confrontation while firmly correcting the record about his country's appreciation for international support. This diplomatic approach reflects Ukraine's continued reliance on Western assistance as it confronts Russian military aggression.
Observers note that Zelenskyy's careful wording appears designed to maintain relationships across the American political spectrum, recognizing that support for Ukraine has sometimes become a partisan issue in US politics. By expressing gratitude to "both parties and Congress," he emphasized the cross-party nature of American support while addressing the specific criticism from Trump.
As the conflict continues, such diplomatic exchanges highlight the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in maintaining international support while pursuing its military and peace objectives. Zelenskyy's response serves both as a correction to the record and as a reaffirmation of Ukraine's position as it navigates complex international relationships amid ongoing hostilities.
