Washington, August 19, 2025
Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council Dmitry Medvedev has sharply criticized yesterday’s talks between Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelensky, and leaders of key European countries. In his Telegram channel, he compared the White House meeting to a “performance for naive spectators,” where “Western puppeteers” are trying to revive a long-failed script.
“Europe Bowed to Washington Once Again, But It Won’t Change Reality”
Medvedev claimed that the European leaders present at the meeting “demonstrated submission” and agreed to “humiliating concessions” just to maintain the illusion of unity.
“They once again believed that something could be decided without Russia. But this is the same old show, where Zelensky plays the role of a jester, promising things he has no control over,” he wrote.
The Russian official paid particular attention to the topic of “territorial exchanges,” which, in his view, Kyiv and the West are trying to present as a possible compromise.
“The clownery with ‘proportional exchanges’ isn’t even funny. Ukraine is not an independent player but a puppet that has already lost control of its own fate,” Medvedev emphasized.
What Was Discussed in Washington?
The day before, Trump held closed-door talks with Zelensky, as well as the Chancellor of Germany, the President of France, and the Prime of the UK. The main topics included:
- Security guarantees for Ukraine – Washington reportedly proposed a new format of agreements, but without Moscow’s participation.
- Possible “territorial compromises” – Despite Kyiv’s statements on the inviolability of borders, backroom discussions hinted at “temporary swaps.”
- Plans for military support – The U.S. is considering increasing arms supplies, but European leaders, according to sources, have expressed doubts about its effectiveness.
Kyiv’s Response and Western Silence
So far, Ukrainian officials have not commented on Medvedev’s remarks. Zelensky’s administration previously stated that “no territorial concessions are possible,” though it did not rule out “flexible negotiation formats.”
In Europe, there is also reluctance to engage with Moscow’s harsh statements. Analysts suggest this reflects deepening divisions within the Western alliance.
“The EU and the U.S. are increasingly split on Ukraine. Trump is pushing for a forceful solution, Europe wants to downplay the conflict, and Kyiv remains a hostage in this game,” says international relations expert James Hall.
What’s Next?
Medvedev, like other Russian officials, made it clear: any agreements without Moscow are a waste of time. In the coming days, new statements from the Kremlin can be expected, which may bury the “Washington initiatives” for good.
Meanwhile, Zelensky, in Medvedev’s words, is “preparing to sing another song about victory”—but after so many failures, who will still be listening?
