Donald Trump Says Russia Is Easier to Deal With Than ‘Difficult’ Ukraine
March 9, 2025 – New York, NY
Former President Donald Trump has sparked controversy once again with a comment about the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, claiming that Russia is “easier to deal with” than Ukraine, which he described as “difficult.” The statement, made during a rally in New Hampshire over the weekend, has drawn swift criticism from both political opponents and international leaders, reigniting debate over his stance on the war in Ukraine.
Trump’s Controversial Remarks
During a speech at a campaign event, Trump addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has continued to ravage the country since Russia’s invasion in 2022. He claimed that, if he were still president, he would have been able to broker a peace deal quickly.
“You know, Russia, they’re not so bad. They’re easier to deal with. Ukraine is just a whole different situation,” Trump told the crowd. “Ukraine is difficult. They don’t always want to negotiate. They want everything, and they keep asking for more. Russia, on the other hand, well, they understand the art of the deal.”
Trump’s comments have immediately drawn backlash from both Republicans and Democrats, with critics accusing him of minimizing the aggression and human rights violations committed by Russia under President Vladimir Putin’s leadership.
Reaction from Politicians and Experts
Several lawmakers, including those from Trump’s own party, have expressed concerns about his comments. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) criticized Trump’s remarks, stating, “This is an incredibly dangerous line of thinking. Russia is the aggressor here, and for Trump to suggest otherwise only emboldens their actions. Ukraine has every right to defend itself, and the world must continue to stand with them in their struggle for sovereignty.”
On the other side of the aisle, some Republicans have also voiced disappointment in Trump’s comments. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), a staunch supporter of Ukraine’s defense, said, “These kinds of comments undermine American support for our allies in Ukraine and send the wrong message to Putin. Ukraine’s fight is our fight, and it’s crucial that we continue supporting them in their resistance to Russian aggression.”
Foreign policy experts have also weighed in, emphasizing the complexities of the situation. Dr. Emily Carlson, a professor of international relations at Georgetown University, noted, “Trump’s remarks are troubling because they oversimplify the realities of the conflict. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is an illegal act of aggression, and framing it as just another negotiation issue ignores the immense human suffering and geopolitical consequences of this war.”
Trump’s Stance on Russia and Ukraine
This is not the first time Trump has made controversial statements regarding Russia and Ukraine. Throughout his presidency, he was often criticized for his relatively warm approach to Putin, with critics accusing him of downplaying Russia’s role in undermining democratic processes worldwide. In recent months, Trump has continued to criticize President Joe Biden’s handling of the Ukraine conflict, particularly in regard to U.S. military aid and sanctions on Russia.
Trump has also repeatedly claimed that, if re-elected, he would end the war in Ukraine within a matter of weeks, promising to negotiate a peace deal with both sides. However, many have questioned the feasibility of such claims, given the entrenched positions of the parties involved.
Global Reaction
On the global stage, Trump’s comments are also raising alarms. Ukrainian officials have made it clear that they remain committed to their sovereignty and will not negotiate with Russia under terms that would undermine their territorial integrity. President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office issued a statement expressing disappointment with Trump’s remarks, stating, “The people of Ukraine have fought and sacrificed for their independence. Russia’s actions are those of an aggressor, and no country has the right to question Ukraine’s right to defend itself.”
European leaders have echoed Zelensky’s sentiment, with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirming their support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
Looking Ahead
Trump’s comments have undoubtedly shifted the conversation around U.S. foreign policy as the 2024 election cycle heats up. While his supporters may view his stance as a pragmatic approach to peace, his remarks risk further polarizing the debate on Ukraine and Russia. With the war still ongoing and no clear resolution in sight, the future of American foreign policy—and its support for Ukraine—remains uncertain.
As the conflict continues, Trump’s position may serve as a bellwether for the direction of U.S. foreign policy should he win a second term. Whether or not his comments will impact his political fortunes remains to be seen, but they have certainly added fuel to an already intense debate over the future of international relations.
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