
Former US President Donald Trump has made a bold assertion that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine would never have occurred had he remained in office, directly criticising the Biden administration's approach to Russia.
Trump's Controversial Statement
Speaking at a recent event, Trump declared: "This terrible war would have never happened if I were your president." The Republican leader suggested that his tougher stance on Russia during his presidency would have deterred Vladimir Putin from launching the invasion.
Claims of Stronger Diplomacy
Trump argued that his personal relationship with Putin and his administration's policies created sufficient deterrence. "They didn't dare move when I was there," he stated, implying that current US leadership has shown weakness in dealing with Moscow.
Current US Support for Ukraine
The remarks come as the Biden administration continues to provide substantial military aid to Ukraine, including advanced weapons systems. However, Trump suggested this support might be coming too late, questioning why certain weapons weren't delivered earlier in the conflict.
Political Reactions
Political analysts are divided on Trump's claims, with some noting that Russia had already begun destabilising Ukraine during his presidency, while others argue his unconventional approach to diplomacy might have indeed altered current events.
The debate continues as the Ukraine war enters its third year, with no clear end in sight and Western support becoming increasingly politicised in the US.